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OL.IS^J[ KXERCISES, 



ADAPTED TO 



IRAY'S ENGLiiH ^RUNVMAR, 



CONSIST IliG OF 



[iiRcisES IN PARSLNG;— LVSTANCES OF FALSE 

ORTHOGRAPHY;— VIOLATIONS OF THE RULES 

OF SYNTAX;— DEFECTS IN PUNCTUATION; 



riOLATIONS OF THE RULES '^ESPi^GTING PERSPICUOUS 
AND ACCURATE WRITING. 




^ 
^ 



4 



desigMed for the 



NEFIT OF PRIVATE I.E'vRNERf . 



FOR THE USE OF SCHOOI^j 




BY LIWDLEY KU!IR.A'" 



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Puk^SHED AND SOLD BY GRIGG «& ELLIOT 
'^ X\9, Nc ;i Fourth Street, 



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y'^'v)^! iDDMov nc rnninDECC ^^ 



rf" Library of Congress. 1 

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^m^UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.^^1^ 

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EXERCISES IN PARSING;— i. 

THOGRA PHY;— VIOLATIONS . 

SYNTAX;— DEFECTS IN FUNC'ic.. 

AKD 

VIOLATIONS OF THE RULES RESPECTING FERSPICUOUjS 
AND ACCURATE WRITING. 

DESiGIS'ED FOR THE 

BENEFIT OF PRIVATE LEARNERS, 

AS WELL AS 

FOR THE USE OF SCHOOLS. 



-^ 



BY LINDLEY MURRAY. 



STEREOTYPED FROM THE LAS^r ENGLISH EDITION 
BY B. & J. COLLINS, NEW YORK. 




PHILADELPHIA : -- ^^- - 

PUBLISHED BY GRIGG & ELLIOT, 









^^V%v 






INTRODUCTION. 



The principles of knowledge become most in 
telligible to young persons, when they are explainea 
and inculcated by practical illustration and direc- 
tion. This mode of teaching is attended with so 
many advantages, that it can scarcely be too much 
recommended, or pursued. Instruction which is 
enlivened by pertinent examples, and in which the 
pupil is exercised in reducing the rules prescribed 
to practice, has a more striking effect en the mind, 
andigbetteradapted to fix the attention, and sharpen 
tJtie understanding, than that which is divested of 
these aids, and confined to bare positions and pre- 
cepts ; in which it too frequently happens that the 
learner has no further concern, than to read and 
repeat them. The time and care employed in prac- 
tical application, give occasion to survey the sub- 
ject minutely, and in different points of view ; by 
which it becomes more known and familiar, and 
produces stronger and mere durable impressions. 

These observations are peculiarly applicable to 
the study of grammar, and the method of teaching 
it. The rules require frequent explanation ; and, 
besides direct elucidation, they admit of examples 
erioneously constructed, for exercising the student'^ 
sagacity and judgment. To rectify these, attention 
and reflection arc lequisite ; and the knowledge of 
the rule necessarily results from the study and cor- 
rection of the sentence. But these are not all the 
advantages which arise fromGrammatical Exercises . 
By discovering their own abilities to detect and 

3 



17 INTRODUCTfOW. 

amend errors and their consequent improvement, 
the scholars become pleased with their studies, anc? 
are animated to proceed, and surmount the obsta- 
cles which occur in their progress. The instructei 
too is relieved and encouraged in his labours. Bj 
discerning exactly the powers and improvement ol 
his pupils, he perceives the proper season for advan- 
cing them ; and by observing the points in which 
they are deficient, he knows precisely where to ap- 
ply his directions and explanations. 

These considerations have induced the Compiler 
to collect and arrange a variety of erroneous exam- 
ples, adapted to the difterent rules and instructions* 
of English Grammar, and to the principles of per- 
spicuous and accurate writing. It has not indeed 
been usual, to make Grammatical Exercises, in our 
language, very numerous and extensive : but if the 
importance and usefulness of them be as great as 
they are conceived to be, no apology will be neces- 
sary for the large field of employments which the 
following work presents to the student of English 
Grammar. If he be detamed longer than is com- 
mon in this part of his studies, the probable result 
of it, an accurate and intimate knowledge of the 
subject, will constitute an ample recompence. 

l^HE reader will perceive that some of the rules 
and observations, under the part of Syntax, contain 
a much greater number of examples than others. 
This has arisen from the supe^rior importance of 
those rules, and from the variety requisite to illus- 
trate them properly. When a few instances afford 
sufficient practice on the rule, the student is not fa- 
tigued with a repetition of examples, which would 
cast no new light on the subject. 

In selecting the instances of false construction, the 
Compiler has studied to avoid those that are 
glaringly erroneous, and to fix upon such only as 
irequently occur in writing or speaking, if there l>e 
any of a difterent complexion^ it is presumed thai 



iney are but few, and that they will be found under 
those rules only, which, from the nature of them, 
could not have been otherwise clearly exemplified 
to young persons. The examples applicable to the 
principal notes and observations, are carefully ar 
ranged under the respective rules of Syntax 5 and 
regularly numbered to make them correspond to the 
subordinate rules in the Grammar. 

As many of the examples contain several errors 
in the same sentence j and some of them admit of 
various constructions in amending them, it has been 
thought proper to publish a Key for ascertaining aU 
the corrections ; and this has been the more expedi- 
ent from the work's being designed for the benefit 
of private learners, as well as for the use of schools. 
The Key to the part on Orthography might have 
been omitted, had not some of the sentences con- 
tained so many words erroneously spelled, as to 
render it probable that several of them would, in 
that case, have been inadvertently passed over : 
especially by persons who m.ay not have the advan- 
tage of a tutor. In forming the Key, it appeared 
to be more elligible, to repeat the sentences at large, 
with their corrections, than simply to exhibit the 
amendments by themselves. In the mode adopted, 
the work has a more regular and uniform appear- 
ance ; the correspondent parts may be more readily 
compared ; and the propriety of tlie corrections will 
be more apparent and striking. 

In a work which consists entirely of examples, 
and with which the learners will, consequently, be 
much occupied and impressed, the compiler would 
liave deemed himself culpable, had he exhibited 
such sentences as contained ideas inapplicable to 
young minds, or which were of a trivial or injurious 
nature. He has, therefore, been soUcitous to avoid 
all excej)tinnable matter; and to improve his work, 
bj> blending moral and useful observations with 
grammatical studie:;. Even sentiments of a piou? 
A 2 



VI INTRODUCTION. 

and religious nature, have not been thought impto- 
per to be occasionally inserted in these Exercises. 
The understanding and sensibility of young ];)ersons, 
are much underrated by those who think them inca- 
iDable of comprehending and relishing this kind of 
mstmction. The sense and love of goodness arc 
early and deeply implanted in the human mind; 
and often, by their infant energies, surprise the in- 
telligent observer :— why, then, should not these 
emotions find their proper support and incentives, 
among the elem.ents of learning ? Congenial senti- 
ments, thus dis}X)sed, besides making permanent im- 
pressions, may serve to cherish and expand those 
generous principles ; or, at least, to prepare them 
for regular operation, at a future period. The im- 
portance of exhibiting to the youthful mind, the de- 
tormities of vice 5 and of giving it just and animating 
views of piety and virtue, makes it not only war- 
rantable, but our duty also, to embrace every pro- 
per occasion to promote, in any degree, these val- 
uable ends. 

In presenting the learner w^ith so great a number 
af examples, it was difficult to preserve them from 
too much uniformity. The Compiler has, however, 
been studious to give them an arrangement and di- 
versity, as agreeable as the nature of the subject 
would admit ; and to render them interesting, as 
well as intelligible and instructive, to young persons^ 

Holdgate near York, n97«. 



ADVERTISEMEXI' 



TO THE SEVENTH EDITION » 

The Author of this volume of Exercises, per- 
ceiving that it has been well received by the public, 
and that the demand for it still continues to increase, 
has felt it incumbent upon him to give the seventh 
edition every imiprovement in his power, without 
enhancing the price of the book. 

Besides expunging some obscure and uninterest- 
ing sentences ; ins-erting a number of examples 
adapted to the latest improvemicnts in the grammar ; 
and adding to the Syntax many useful exercises ; 
he has subjoined to the part designed to promote 
perspicuous and accurate writings a whole chapter 
(twelve pages) of promiscuous exercises, peculiarly 
adapted to this subject. As every other general 
division of the book was provided vrith a chapter of 
this nature, it is presumed that teachers and private 
students will approve ot^an addition so necessary to 
complete the plan of the w^ork. It is calculated, at 
once, to confirm the learner in perspicuous and ac- 
curate writing, and to improve his taste for elegant 
composition 

In all the additional exercises to this part of the 
book, the author has been careful to exhibit no in- 
accuracies but such as are frequently found in 
respectable WTitings. The display of vulgar and 
glaring errors, which no persons of education 
ever commit, would not be proper for a w^ork of this 
nature, and could not fail to produce disapprobation 
and disgust* 

* The improvements made in the eighth edition, consist, cliief^^.. 
o^ " General Directions for using the Exercises," and of a new, ei\ 
fwrgrd system of Exercises in Paxsin§. 



TO THE TENIH EDITION. 

One of the chief improvements, made in the tenxh 
edition of this Avork, eonsists in the adaptation of it, 
throughout, to an objective case of nouns. This 
case was adopted in the troelfth edition of the Gram 
mar ; and it is therefore indispensable, that the Ex 
ercises should conform to the alteration.* 

As there are some teachers, who doubt the pro 
priety of presenting exercises of bad English to 
youth of the junior classes, it seems proper in this 
place, to make a few observations on the subject. 

The author is persuaded, that exercises of this 
nature cannot be too soon engaged in, by the student 
of grammar. Simple rules, and examples of recti- 
tude, make light impression, compared Avith the 
effect of contrast, in which errors and corrections 
are opposed to each other. A child generally sees 
and hears so many instances of erroneous construc- 
tion, that, unless he is early taught to distinguish and 
correct them, his imitative powers will be more in- 
fluenced by error than by rectitude. Besides, chil- 
dren, in detecting and amending errors, feel rfieir 
OAvn povv'ers ; and however small the exercise may 
be, it is a m.ost pleasing and animating incentive to 
application and study. What they learn in this way, 
will not only gratify them : it will also improve their 
Judgment and sagacity, and be long and accurately 
i^membered. 

On these grounds, it is evident, that the practice 
of correcting errors, should be introduced into the 
early stages of grammatical studies. Instead of ex- 
posing children to " the danger of evil communica* 
lion," as some ingenious personshave supposed^ il 
seems to be the best means of teaching them, first, 
to discover the irregularities, and then, to avoid the 
Conta;;ion. of bad ex^mple^*- 

• See the reasons in (avatir ol an Objectn':? case lor E^g'IS^' 
!T!i^M»r., at page 50 51, of th«' Twelfth, OP auy-subsequenl edition of 



ADVERTISEMENT 

TO THE TWELFTH EDITION 

The reader will perceive, that a number of Notes 
and Critical Discussions has been inserted inappro- 
priate parts of the Exercises and the Key, This 
was occasioned by the Grammar's having been set 
np, and not admitting of enlargeni.ent without an ad- 
vance of its price. The author has, however, 
taken care to make proper references, under the 
correspondent rules in the Grammar, to all those ad- 
ditional notes and discussions. To* this mode of 
supplying improvem^ents, the reader will have the 
less objection, when he considers, that the Exer- 
cises and the Key are necessary appendages to the 
Grammar ; and serve to illustrate and enforce, as 
well as to extend, its rules and positions. The three 
volumes are indeed intimately connected ; and con- 
stitute one uniform system^ of.English Grammar. 

To the Tenth edition of the Key, the Author 
has added an Apologetical Preface, accounting for 
the additions and variations, which are to be found 
m the different editions of his grammatical works. 
We has also annexed to that edition of the Key, a 
copious Alphabttical Index to the Grammar, the 
^ xercises. and the Key ; a work w^hich he flatters 
himself will be generally useful ; and particularly 
acceptablO'to' students who have made some progress 
in the knowledge of grammar 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS 

FOR USING THE EXERCISES^ 

1 . As soon as the learner has committed to mei 
Ofy, the definitions of the article and substantive, ^t 
expressed in the Grammar, he should be employ eii 
in parsing those parts of speech, as they are arran- 
ged in this volume of the Exercises. 

2. The learner should proceed, in this manner, 
through all the definitions of the parts of speech 
contained in etymology, regularly parsing the exer- 
cises on one definition, before he applies to another. 

3. As the pupil will then be able to understand 
all the rules in orthography, he should be directed 
to correct, in regular order, the orthographical ex- 
ercises attached to the particular rules. 

» 

4. In this stage of his progress, he may vary his 
eliiployment, by occasionaHy parsing the promiscu- 
ous exercises, contained in the ninth section of the 
chapter of Etymological Parsing, and by writing the 
plurals of nouns, &:c. in the eighth section of the same 
chapter. 

• 
. When the first rule of syntax is committed to 
memory, the correspondent exercise in parsing, 
should be performed. Then the sentences af false 
syntax, under the rule, should be corrected, in 
writing. In this manner, both as to parsing and 
correcting, all the rules of syntax siiould be treated, 
proceeding regularly according to their order. The 
pupil may now be, occasionly, employed in cor- 
recting the promiscuous exercises in orthography^ 

6. The preceding directions (ex/ept those upon 
oithography) respect only the leading rules of the 

to 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. X« 

Grammar, which are printed, in the larger typt^ 
When the exercises on those general rules are com- 
pleted, and not before, the learner is to apply to the 
first s ubordinat e rule, contained m the smaller type.* 
He is to read it very attentively, assisted by the 
teacher's explanations ; and afterwards correct, in 
writing, the false construction of the exercises be- 
longing to it. Thus, he is to proceed, rcAe by rule, 
till the wholeds,^ished,"^ The learner should now 
be, occasionally^mployed in parsing the promis- 
cuous exercises, contained in the eighth section of 
the chapter on Syntactical Parsing. 

7. When the student has corrected all the exer- 
cises appropriated to the particular rules, he should 
t^gularly proceed to rectify the promiscuous exer- 
cises, in syntax and punctuation. In this employ, 
he should write over each correction, the number of 
the rule, principal or subordinate, by which he con- 
ceives the correction ought to be made. 

8. After this progress, the learner will be qualified 
to enter on the exercises respecting perspicuous 
and accurate writing. In this part, he is to proceed 
in a manner as similar to the preceding directions, 
as the subject will admit. 

9. When ah the exercises have been regularly 
corrected, in writings it would tend to perfect the 
pupirs knowledge of the rules, and to give him an 
nabitual dexterity in applying them, if he were oc- 
casionally desired to correct, verbally, erroneous 
sentences purposely selected from different parts of 
the book ; to recite the rules by which they are 
governed ; and, in his own language, to detail the 
reasons on which the corrections are founded. The 



• The pupn ought to revie\r every leading rule, and again recti- 
fy a few of the sentences under it, before he enters on its pjLoTi^if^ 
note rules and their correspondent «\crcise3 



KH GENERAL DIRfiCTlONS. 

following examples will give the student an idea f>l 
the manner, in which he is to make the verbal cor- 
rections. 



*^ The man is prudent which speaks little. 

This sentence is incorrect ; because which is a 
pronoun of the neuter gender, and does not agree 
in gender with its antecedent mcin^ which is mascu 
line. But a pronoun should agree^with its .antece^ 
dent, in gender, &:c. according to the fifth rule of 
syntax. Which should therefore be who, a relative 
pronoun agreeing with its antecedent man; and the 
sentence should stand thus : '' The man is prudent 
who speaks little.'' 

'' After I visited Europe, I returned to America.'' 

This sentence is not correct ; because the verb 
visited is in the imperfect tense, and yet used here 
to express an action, not only past, but prior to the 
time referred to by the verb returnedy to which it 
relates. By the thirteenth rule of syntax, when 
verbs are used that, in point of time, relate to each 
other, the order of time should be observed. The 
imperfect tense visited should, therefore, have been 
had visited, in the pluperfect tense, representing the 
action of visiting, not only as past, but also as prior 
to the time of returning. The sentence corrected 
would stand thus : *^ After I had visited Europe, 1 
returned to America." 

^' This was the cause, which first gave rise to such 
a barbarous practice." 

This sentence is inaccurate. The words jfJr^^ and 
rist have here the same meaning ; and the word such 
is not properly applied. This v/ord signifies of that 
kind : bu the author does not refer to a kind cr spe- 
cies of barbarity. He means a degree of it: anJ 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. 8 II 

xhrrefore the word^o, instead oi such, ought to have 
been used. The words cause and gave rise, are also 
tautoiogical : one of them should, consequently, 
be omitted. The sentence coiTected would stand 
thus : " This was the original cause of so barbarous 
a practice;"or, ** of a practice so barbarous*" 

10. As parsing is an exercise of great import- 
ance to the pupil, it should be continued, regularly 
through the whole course of his grammatical in- 
stniction. 

11. To the learner who has not the aid of a teach 
er, the Key is indispensable. But it should, on no 
occasion, be consulted, till the sentence which is to 
be rectified, has been well considered, and has n>- 
ceived the Icarner^s best correction. 



CONTENTS. 

ART I 

Exercises m Parsing. 

:maf. K Exercises in Parsing, as it respects 

Etymology alone . . - . i 
2. Exercises in Parsing, as it respects 

both Etymology and Syntax - 16 

PART II. 

Exercises in Orthography. 

Chap. 1. Instances of false Orthography, ar- 
ranged under the respective Rules 3k3 
2^ Instances of false Orthography, pro- 
miscuously disposed - - - 3Cf 

PART III. 

Exercises in Syntax, 

Cha.f» 1. Instances of false Syntax, disposed 

under the particular Rules - - 48 
2, Instances of false Syntax, promiscu- 
ously disposed - - - - 98 

PART IV. 

Exercises in Punctuation. 

Cl!AP« 1. Sentences which require the applica- 
tion of the Comma, disposed under 
the particular Rules - - 11% 

3* Sentences which require the inser- 
tion of the Semicolon and Comma 123 
14 



CONTENTS. XV 

Page. 

CHAP. 3. Sentences requiring the application 

of the Colon, &:c. - - 123 

4. Sentences which require the insertion 

of the Period - - - 125 

5« Sentences requiring the application 
of the Dash ; of the Notes of In- 
terrogation and Exclamation ; anc! 
of the Parenthetical Characters TJ 

6. Promiscuous instances of defective 

Punctuation - - - 128 

PART V. 

Exercises to promote perspicuous and accurate 

Writing* 

First, With respect to single Words and Phrases* 
^.^AP. 1. Violations of the Rules of Purity 139 

2. Violations of the Rules of Propriety 1 4 1 

3. Violations of the Rules of Precision 148 

Secondly, With respect to the construction of 
Sentences* 

CHAP. 1. Sentences in which the Rules of 

Clearness are violated - - Ib^ 

2. Sentences in which the Rules of 

Unity are violated - - 153 

3. Sentences in xvhich the Rules for 

promoting the strength of a sen- 
tence are violated - - 150 

4. Instances of an irregular use of Fi- 

gures of Speech - - - 170 
5* Violations of the Rule'^ respecting 
perspicuous and accu/ote writing, 
promiscuously disposed - f3 

APPENDIX. 

CBAP 1. On transposing the members of a 
sentence - - - . 

2. On variety of expression 



EXERCISES. 

PART I. 

EXERCISES [N PARSING. 



CHAP. I. 

Exercnes in Parsing, as it respects Etymoloct ' 
alone* 

See the Gramriiar, p. 1^5. 

SECT. L 

Etymological Parsing Tuhlt. 

What part of Speech? 

K An article. What kind ? Why ? 

2. A substantive. Common or proper ? What gen- 

der ? Number ? Case ? Why ? 

3. An adjective. What degree of comparison ? To 

what does it belong ? Why an adjective ? 

4. A pronoun. What kind? Peison? Gender? 

Number ? Case ? Why ? 

5. A verb. What kind ? Mood ? Tense ? Number ? 

Person ? Why ? If a participle, Why f ac- 
tive or passive ? 

6. An Adverb. Why is it an adverb ? 
1. A preposition. Why a preposition f 

8. A conjunction. Why? 

9. An interjection. Why ? 

1 B 2 



SECT. II. 

Specimen of Etymological Parsmg. 

" Hope animates us.^' 

Hope IS a common substantive, of the neuter gen 
der, the third person, in the singular number, and 
the nominative case. [Decline the substantive.'] Ani- 
mates is a regular verb active, indicative mood, pre- 
sent tense, third person singular. [Repeat thepre- 
sent tense^ the imperfect tense^ and the perfect par- 
ticiple ; and sometimes conjugate the verb eiitirely.] 
E^ is a personal pronoun, first person plural, and in 
the objective case. [Decline the pronoun.'] 

" A peaceful mind is virtue's reward.^' 

A is the indefinite article. Peaceful is an adjective. 
[Repeat the degrees of comparison.'] Mind is a com- 
mon substantive, of the neuter gender, the third 
person, in the singular number, and the nominative 
case. [Decline the substantive.] Is is an irregular 
verb neuter, indicative mood, present tense, and the 
third person singular. [Repeat the present tense^ the 
imperfect tense^ and the participle ; and occasionally 
conjugate the verb entirely.] Virtue^s is a common 
substantive, of the neuter gender, the third person, 
IQ the singular n imber, and the possessive case 
[Decline the subst intive.] Reward is a common sub- 
stantive, of the ne Iter gender, the third person, in the 
ungulir number^ and the nominative case. 



PARSING* 



3 



A flower 

An apple 

An orange 

An almond 

A hood 

A house 

A hunter 

An hour 

An honour 

An hostler 

The garden 

The fields 

The rainbow 

The clouds 

The scholars^ duty 

The horizon 

Virtue 

The vices 

Temperance 

A variety 

George 

TheJlhine 

A prince 

A rivulet 

The Humber 

Gregory 

The Pope 

An inclination 

The undertaking 

Penelope 

Constancy 

An entertainment 

A fever 

The stars 

Acomei 

A miracle 

A prophecy 

O'^pravity 



A building 

The weavers' company 

Europe 

The sciences 

Yorkshire 

The planets 

The sun 

A volume 

Parchment 

The pens 

A disposition 

Benevolence 

An oversight 

A design 

The governess 

An ornament 

The girls' school 

A grammar 

Mathematics 

The elements 

An earthquake 

The king's prerogative 

Africa 

The continent 

Roundness 

A declivity 

Blackness 

An elevation 

The conqueror 

An Alexander 

Wisdom 

America 

The Csesars 

The Thames 

A river 

The shadows 

A vacancy 

The hollow 



EXERCISES. 



The constitution 

The laws 

Beauty 

A. consumption 



An idea 
A Avhim 
Something 
Nothing 



SECT IV. 



Article^ Adjective^ and Substantive* 



A good heart 
A wise head 
A strong body 
An obedient son 
A diligent scholar 
A happy parent 
Shady trees 
A fragrant flower 
The verdant fields 
A peacei^ul mind 
Composed thoughts 
A serene aspect 
An affable deportment 
The whistling winds 
A dignified character 
A pleasing address 
An onen countenance 
The candid reasoner 
Fair proposals 
A mutual agreement 
A plain narrative 
An historical fiction 
Relentless war 
An obdurate heart 
Tempestuous passions 
A temper unhappy 
A sensual mind 
The babbling brook 
A limpid stream 



A boisterous sea 

The howling tempest 

A gloomy cavern 

Rapid streams 

Unwholesome dews 

A severe winter 

A useless drone 

The industrious bees 

Harmless doves 

The careless ostrich 

The dutiful stork 

The spacious firmament 

Cooling breezes 

A Avoman amiable • . 

A free government 

The diligent farmer 

A fruitful field 

The crowning harvest 

A virtuous conflict 

A finai reward 

Peaceful abodes 

The noblest prospect 

A profligate life 

A miserable end 

Regions gloomy 

An incomprehensible 

subject 
A controverted point 
The cool sequestered vale 



PARSING* 



The devious walk. 
A winding canal* 
The serpentine river. 
A melancholy fact. 
An interesting history. 
A happier life. 
The woodbine's fra- 
grance. 
A cheering prospect. 
An harmonious sound. 
Fruit delicious. 
The sweetest incense. 
An odorous garden. 
The sensitive plant. 
A convenient mansion. 
Warm clothing. 
A'temperate climate. 
Wholesome aliment. 
An affectionate parent. 



A garden enclosed. 

The ivy-mantled tower. 

Virtue's fair form. 

A mahogany table. 

Sweet-scented myrtle. 

A resolution wise, noble, 
disinterested. 

Consolation's lenient 
hand. 

A better world. 

A cheerful, good old man. 

A silver tea-urn. 

Tender-looking charity. 

My brother's wife's mo- 
ther. 

A book of my friend's. 

An animating^ well-found- 
ed hope. 



SECT. V. 



Pronoun and Verh^ SfC. 



I am sincere. 

Thou art industrious. 

He is disinterested. 

We honour them. 

You encourage us. 

They commend her. 

Thou dost improve. 

He assisted me. 

We completed our jour- 
ney. 

Our hopes did flatter us. 

'They have deceived me. 

Your expectation has 
failed. 



Know yourselves. 

Let them advance. 

They may offend. 

I can forgive. 

He might surpass them. 

We could overtake him. 

I would be happy. 

You should repent. 

He may have deceived 
me. 

They may have forgot- 
ten. 

Thou mightst have im- 
proved. 



6 



EXERCISES. 



The accident had hap- 
pened. 

He had resigned himself. 
Their fears will detect 
them. 

You shall submit. 

They will obey us. 

Good humour shall pre- 
vail. 

He will have determined. 

We shall have agreed. 

Let me depart. 

Do you instruct him. 

Prepare your lessons. 

Let him consider. 

Let us improve ourselves. 

We have been rewarded. 

She had been admired. 

Virtue will be rewarded. 

The person will have 
been executed, when 
the pardon arrives. 

Let him be animated. 

Be you entreated. 

Let them be prepared. 

It can be enlarged. 

You may be discovered. 

He might be convinced. 

It would be caressed. 

I may have been deceiv- 
ed. 

They might have been 
honoured. 

To be trusted, we must 
be virtuous. 

To have been admired, 
availed him little. 



We should have consv 
dered. 

To see the sun is pleasant* 

To live well is honour- 
able. 

To have conquered him 
self was his highest 
praise. 

Promoting others' wel- 
fare, they advanced 
their own interest. 

He lives respected. 

Having resigned his of 
fice, he retired. 

They are discouraged. 

He was condemned. 

The book is his ; it was 
mine. 

These are yours, those 
are ours. 

Our hearts are deceitful. 

Your conduct met their 
approbation. 

None met who coule 
avoid it. 

His esteem k my honour. 

Her work does her cre- 
dit. 

Each must answer the 
question. 

Every heart knows iif 
own sorrows. 

Which was his choice ^ 

It was neither. 

Hers is finished, thm»' \m 
to do. 

This IS what I feared. 



PARSIN'O, 7 

Ridiculed, despised, per- That is the thing which 

seciited, he maintain- I desired. 

ed his principles. Who can preserve h^w 

Being reviled, we bless. self? 

Having been deserted, he Whose books are tnese * 

became discouraged. Whom have we served ? 

The sight -being new, he Some are nes;ligent, 

startled. others industrious. 

This uncouth figure start- One may deceive one* s 

led him. self. 

t have searchea, I have All have a talent to im- 

found it. prove. 

They searched those Can any dispute it ? 

rooms ; he was gone. Such is our condition^ 

SECT. VI. 
Adverb^ Preposition^ Conjunction^ and hitenjection, 

I have seen him once, When vvnll they arrive ? 

perhaps twice. Where shall we stop ? 

Thirdly, and lastly, I Mentally and bodily, we 

shall conclude. are curiously and won- 

This plant is found here, derfully formed. 

and elsewhere. They travelled through 

Only to-day is properly France, in haste, to- 

ours. w^ards Italy. 

The task is already per- From virtue to vice, the 

formed. progress is gradual. 

We could not serve him By diligence and frugal- 

then, but we wull here- ity v;e arrive at com- 

after. petency. 

We often resolve, but We are often below our 

seldom perform. wishes, and above our 

Ele is much more proinis- desert. 

ing now than former- Some things make for 

ly. him, others agains^ 

him. 



® EXERCISES. 

We are wisely and hap- By this imprudence, he 

pily directed, was plunged into new 

He has certainly been difficulties. 

diligent, and he will Without the aid of chari- 

probably succeed. ty, he supported him- 

Kow sweetly the birds self with credit. 

sing ! Of his talents much might 

Why art thou so heed- be said ; concerning 

less ? his integrity, nothing. 

He is little attentive, nay, On all occasions, she be- 
absolutely stupid. haved with propriety. 
We in vain look for a Neither prosperity, nor 

path between virtue adversity, has improv- 

and vice. ed him. 

He lives within his in- He can acquire no vir- 

come. tue, unless he make 

The house was sold at a some sacrifices. 

great pri:e, and above Let him that standeth, 

its value. take heed lest he fall. 

She came down stairs If thou wert his superior, 

slowly, but went brisk- thou shouldst not have 

ly up again. boasted. 

His father, and mother, He will be detected, 

and uncle, reside at though he deny the 

Rome. fact. 

We must be temperate, if If he has promised, he^ 

we would be healthy. should act accordingly. 
He is as old as his class- She will transgress, un- 

mate,but not so learned.. less she be admonish- 
Charles is esteemed be- ed. 

cause he is both dis- If he were encouraged, 

creet and benevolent. he would amend. 
We will stay till he ar- Though he condemn me 

rives. I will respect him. 

He retires to rest soon, Their talents are more 

that he may rise early. brilliant than useful. 
We ought to be thankful. Notwithstanding his po- 

^or we have received verty,he is a wise and 

much. worthy person. 



PARSING. 

Though he is often ad- If our desires are mode- 
vised yet he does not rate, our wants will 
reform. be few. 

Reproof either softens or Hope often amuses, but 
hardens, its object. seldom satisfies us* 

Thoudi he is lively, yet Hark! how sweetly the 
he IS not volatile. woodlark sings ! 

peace! how desirable Ah! the delusions of hope, 
thou art ! Hail, simplicity ! source 

1 have been often occu- of genuine joy. 

pied, alas! with trifles. Behold! how pleasant it 

Strange ! that we should is for brethren to dwell 

be so infatuated. together in unity ! 

O ! the humiliations to Welcome again ! my Jong 

which vice reduces us. lost friend. 

SECT. VII. 

A few instances of the same word/s constituting s eve* 
ral of the parts of speech. 

Calm was the day, and He laboured to still the 
the scene delightful. . tumult. 

We may expect a calm Still waters are common- 
after a storm. ly deepest. 

To prevent passion, is Damp air is linwhole- 
easier than to calm it. some. 

13etter is a little wth con- Guilt often casts a damp 
tent, than a great deal over our sprightliest 
with anxiety. hours. 

The eay and dissolute Soft bodies damp the 
think little of the mise- sound much more than 
ries, which are steal- hard ones, 
ing softly after them. Tho' she is rich and fair, 

A little attention will rec- yet she is not aimiable. 

^ tify some errors. They are yet young, and 

Though he is out of dan- must suspend their 
ger, he is still afiaid. judgment yet a while. 



^ EXERCISES. 

Many persons are better Behave yourselves likt 

than w« suppose them men. 

to be. We are too apt to like 

The few and the many pernicious company. 

have their preposses- He may go or stay as he 

sions. likes. 

Few days pass without They strive to learn. 

some clouds. He eoes to and fro. 

Much money is corrupt- To his w^isdom we owe 

ing. our privilege. 

Think much, and speak The proportion is ten to 

little. one. 

He has seen much of the He has served them with 

world, and been much his utmost ability. 

carressed. When we do our utmost 

His years are more than no more is required. 

hers ; but he has not I will submit, for I know 

more knowledge. submission brings peace. 

The more we are blessed, It is for our health to be 

the more grateful we temperate. 

should be. O ! for better times. 

The desire of getting I have a regard for him. 

more is rarely satis- He is esteemed, both or. 

lied. his own account, and 

He has equal knowledge, on that of his parents. 

but inferior judgment. Both of them deserve 
She is his inferior in praise. 

sense, but his equal in Yesterday was a fine day. 

prudence. I rode out yesterday. 

Every beingloves its like. 1 shall write to-morrow. 
We must make a like To-morrow may be 

space between the brighter than to-day. 

Imes. 



PARSING. 11 

SECT. VIII. 



^0U7is^ Adjectives, and Verbsy to be declined, cam- 
pared, and conjugated. 

Write, in the nominative case plural, ^he follow- 
ing nouns : apple, plum, orange, bush, tree, plant, 
convenience, disorder, novice, beginning, defeat, 
protuberance. 

Write the following substantives, in the nomina 
tive case plural ; cry, fly, cherry, fancy, glory, duty, 
boy, folly, play, lily, toy, conveniency. 

W'^ite the following nouns in the possessive case 
singular : boy, girl, man, woman, lake, sea, church* 
lass, beauty, sister, bee, branch. 
^- Write the following in the nominative case plural : 
loaf, sheaf, self, muff, knife, stuff, wife, staff, wolf, 
half, calf, shelf, life. 

Write the following in the possessive case plural : 
brother, child, man, woman, foot, tooth, ox, mouse 
goose, penny. 

Write the following nouns in the nominative and 
possessive cases plural : wife, chief, die, staff, city, 
river, proof, archer, master, crutch, mouth, baker, 
distaff. 

Write the possessive singular and plural of the 
pronouns, I, thou, he, she, it, who, and other. 

Write the objecti*ve cases, singular and plural, oi 
the pronouns, I, thou, he, she, it, and who. 

Compare the following adjectives : fair, grave, 
bright, long, short, tall, white, deep, strong, poor, 
rich , great. 

Compare the following adjectives : amiable, mo 
.derate, disinterested, favourable, grateful, studioug, 
attentive, negligent, industrious, perplexing. 

Write the following adjectives, in the comparative 



12 EXE*tCf»K»* 

degree : near, far, little, low, good, indifferent, bad 
worthy, convenient. 

Wrfte the following adjectives in the superlative 
dcCTee : feeble, bold, good, ardent, cold, bad, base, 
Httle, strong, late, near, content. 

Conjugate the following verbs in the indicative 
mood, present tense : beat, gain, read, eat, walk, 
desire, interpose. 

Conjugate the following verbs in the potential 
mood, imperfect tense : fear, hope, dream, fly, con- 
sent, improve, controvert. 

Conjugate the following verbs in the subjunctive 
mood, perfect tense : drive, prepare, starve, omit 
indulge, demonstrate. 

Conjugate the fo! ..-wing words in the imperative 
mood : beUcvc, dej !iit, invent, give, abolish, con- 
trive. 

Write the following verbs in the infinitive mood, 
present and perfect tenses : grow, decrease, live, 
prosper, separate, incommode. 

Write the present, perfect, and compound parti- 
ciples, of the following verbs : confess, disturb, 
please, know, begin, sit, set, eat, lie, lay. 

Conjugate the following verbs, in the indicative 
mood, present and perfect tenses of the passive 
voice : honour, abase, amuse, slight, enlighten, dis- 
please, envelop, bereave. 

Conjugate the following verbs, in the indicative 
mood, pHiperfect and first future tenses : fly, con* 
trive, know, devise, choose, come, see, go' eat, 
grow, bring, forsake^ 

Write the following verbs in the present and im- 
perfect tenses of the potential and subjunctive 
tnoods : know, shake, heat, keep, give, blow, be- 
stow, beseech. 

Write the following verbs in the indicative mood 
imperfect and second future tenses* of the pasoiv 



PARSING. 13 

voice: slay, draw, crown, throw, defeat, grind, hear, 
divert. 

Write the following verbs in the second and third 
persons singular of all the tenses in the indicative 
and s-ubjunctive moods : approve, condemn, mourn, 
freeze, Know, arise, drive, blow, investigate. 

Form the following verbs in the infinitive and 
imperative moods, with their participles, all in the 
passive voice : embrace, draw, defeat, smite, 

SECT. IX. 
Promiscuous Exercises in Etymological Parsings 

In your whole behaviour, be humble and obliging* 

Virtue is the universal charm. 

True politeness has its seat in the heart* 

We should endeavour to please, rather than to 
shine and dazzte. 

Opportunities occur daily for strengthening in 
ourselves the habits of virtue. 

Compassion prompts us to relieve the wants oi 
others. 

A good mind is unwilling to give pain to either 
man or beast. 

Peevishness and passion often produce, from tri ■ 
fles, the most serious mischiefs. 

Discontent often nourishes passions, equally ma- 
lignant m the cottage and in the palace. 

A great proportion of human evils is created by 
ourselves. 

A passion for revenge, has always been consider- 
ed as the mark of a little and mean mind. 

If greatness flatters our vanity, it multiplies our 
dangers. 

To our own failings we are commonly blind. 

The friendships of young persons, are often 
Toun<led on capricious likings. 

C 2 



14 EXJBRCISES. 

In your youthful amusements, let no unfairness 
156 found. 

Engrave on your minds this sacred rule ; •^ Do 
unto others, as you wish that they should do unto 
you.'' 

Truth and candour possess a powerful charm t 
they bespeak universal favour. 

After the first departure from sincerity it is sel 
dom in our power to stop : one artifice, generally 
leads on to another. 

Temper the vivacity of youth, with a prope? 
mixture of serious thought. 

The spirit of true religion is social, kind, and 
cheerful. 

Let- no compliance with the intemperate mirth o^ 
others, ever betray you into profane sallie.sl 

In preparing for another world, we must no 
neglect the duties of this life. 

The manner in which we employ our present time 
may decide our future happiness or misery. 

Happiness does not grow up of its own accord ; 
it is the fruit of long cultivation, and the acquisition 
of labour and care. 

A plain understanding ;.s often joined with great 
worth. 

The brightest parts are sometimes found without 
virtue or honour. 

How feeble are the attractions of the fairest form, 
when nothing within corresponds to them ! 

Piety and virtue are particularly graceful and be 
coming in youth. 

Can we, untouched by gratitude, view that pro- 
fusion of good, which the Divine hand pours around 

There is nothing in human life more amiable and 
respectable, than the eharactet of a truly humbb 
xfid benevolent man. 



PARS mo. t^ 

What feelings are more uneasy and distressful, 
than the workings of sour and angry passions ? 

No man can he active in disquieting others, who 
does not, at the same time, disquiet himself. 

A life of pleasure and dissipation, is an enemy 
to health, fortune, and character. 

To correct the spirit of discontent, let us consider 
how little we deserve, and how much we enjoy. 

As far as happiness is to be found on earth, we 
must look for it, not in the w^orld, or the things of 
the world ; but within ourselves, in our temper, and- 
in our heart. , 

Though bad men attem.pt to turn virtue into ridi* 
cule, they honour it at the bottom of their hearts. 

Of what small moment to our real happiness, are 
many of those injuries which draw forth our resent- 
ment. 

In the moments of eager contention, every thing 
is magnified and distorted in its appearance. 

Multitudes in the most obscure stations, are not 
less eager in their petty broils, nor less tormented by 
their passions, than if princely honours were the 
prize for which they contend. 

The smooth stream, the serene atmosphere, the 
mild zephyr, are the proper emblems of a gentle 
temper, and a peaceful life. Among the sons of 
*^fe, all is loud and tempestuous. 



16 EXFRCISES. 

CHAPTER II. 

Exercises m Parsing, as it respects both Etymq 
LOGY and Syntax. 

See the Grammar, p. 197. 

SECT. L 

Syntactical Parsing Table. 

Article. Why is it the definite article ? 

Why the indefinite ? 

Why omitted ? Why repeated ? 
Substantive. Why is it in the possessive case ? 

Why in the objective case ? 

Why in apposition ? 

Why is the apostrophic s omitted ? 
Adjective. What is its substantive ? 

Why in the singular, why in the plural 
number ? 

Why in the comparative degree, &c. ? 

Why placed after its substantive ? 

Why omitted ? Why repeated ? 
Pronoun. W^hat is its antecedent ? 

Why is it in the singular, why in tlie 
plural number ? 

Why of the mascuhne, why of the fe* 
minine, why of the neuter gender ? 

Why of the first, of the second, or ol 
the third person ? 

Why is it the nominative case ? 

Why the possessive ? Why the objec 
tive ? 

Why omitted ? Why repeated ? 

What is Its nominat>ve case ? 

What case does it govern ? 



PARSING. 17 

Why is it in the singular ? Why in the 
plural number ? 

Why in the first person, &c. ? 

Why is it in the infinitive mood ? 

Why in the subjunctive, &c. ? 

Why in this particular tense ? 

What relation has it to another verb 
in point of time ? 

Why do participles sometimes govern 
the objective case ? 

Why is the verb omitted ? Why repeal, 
ed? 
Sdverb. What is its proper situation ? 

Why is the double negative used ? 

Why rejected ? 
Preposition. What case does it govern ? 

Which is the word governed ? ' 

Why this preposition ? 

Why omitted? Why repeated? 
Con/wnc/ion.What moods, tenses, or cases, does it 
connect ? Aiid why ? What mood 
does it require ? Why omitted? Why 
repeated '* 
Interjection, Why does the nominative case follow 
it ? Why the objective ? Why omit- 
ted ? Why repeated ? 

SECT. II. 

Spec%men of Syntactical Parsings 

** Vice degrades us.'' 

Vice is a common substantive, of the neuter gen** 
der, the third person, in the singular number, and 
the nominative case. Degrades is a regular verb ac- 
tive, indicative mood, present tense, third pei^on sin- 
gular, agreeing with its nominative "vice^" accord 



18 EX£RCISES. 

mg to RULE I. which says ; (here repeat the rule.) 
Us is ^ personal pronoun, first person plural, in the 
objective case, and governed by the active verb "de- 
grades,'' agreeably to rule xi. which says, &c. 

•* He who lives virtuously prepares for all events.'* 

He is a personal pronoun, of the third person 
singular number, and masculine gender, Who is a 
relative pronoun, which has for its antecedent, ''he,'* 
with which it agrees in gender and number, ac- 
cording to rule v. which says,&:c. Lives a regular 
verb neuter, indicative mood, present tense, third 
person singular, agreeing with its nominative,'' who," 
according to rule vi. which says, &c. Virtuously 
is an adverb of quality. Prepares a regular verb 
neuter, indicative mood, present tense, third person 
singular, agreeing with its nominative, "he." For 
is a preposition. All is an adjective pronoun, 'of the 
indefinite kind, the plural number, and belongs to 
its substantive, "events," with which it agrees, ac- 
cording to rule viu. which says, &;c. Events is a 
common substantive of the neuter gender, the third 
person, in the plural number, and the objective case, 
governed by the preposition, " for," according to 
rule XVII. which says, &;c. 

'^ If folly entice thee, reject its allurements." 

TjTis a copulative conjunction. Folly is a commor 
substantive of the neuter gender, the third person 
in the singular number, and the nominative case. 
Entice is a regular verb active, subjunctive mood, 
present tense, third person singular, and is governed 
by the conjunction " if," according to rule xix. 
which says, &c. Thee is a personal pronoun, of the 
second person singular, in the objective case, govern- 
ed by the active verb " entice," agreeably to rul? 
ru which sajfsr, &c. Reject is a regular active verb 



PARSING. 19 

tnperative mood, second person singular ,and agrees 
ivith its nominative case, " thou" implied. Its is a 
personal pronoun, third person, singular number, and 
of the neuter gender, to agree with its substantive 
'' folly,'' according to rule v. which says, &c. It 
is in the possessive case, governed by the noun " al- 
lurements," agreeably to rule x. which says, &c. 
Allurements is a common substantive, of the neuter 
gender, the third person, in the plural number, and 
the objective case, governed by the active verb, * 're- 
ject," according to rule xi. which says, &c. 

SECT. III. 

Exercises on thejirst, second, third and fourth Rule$ 

of Syntax*'^ 

1. The contented mind spreads ease and cheer- 
fulness around it. 

The school of experience teaches many useful 
lessons. 

In the path of life are many thorns, as well as 
flowers. 

Thou shouldst do justice to all men, even to 
enemies. 

2. Vanity and presum.ption ruin many a promis- 
ing youth. 

Food, clothing, and credit, are the rewards of in- 
dustry. 

He and William live together in great harmony. 

3. No age, nor condition, is exempt from trouble. 
Wealth, or virtue, or any valuable acquisition, is 

not attainable by idle wishes. 



* In parsing these exercises the pupil shoiild^^^^^Hrespective 
rule of Syntax, and show that it applies to the ^^^^p|Vhich he ts 
parsing/ ^^^^ A 



le n^^piVhich he h 



90 EXERCISES. 

4. The British nation is great and generous. 

The company is assembled. It is composed of 
persons possessmg very different sentiments. 

A herd of cattle, peacefully grazing, affords ^ 
pleasing sight. 

SECT. IV. 

Exercises on theffih^ sixths seventh^ and eighth 
Rules of Syntax. 

5 The man, who is faithfully attached to religion 
may be relied on with confidence. 

The vices which we should especially avoid, are 
those which most easily beset us. 

6. They who are born in high stations, are no» 
always happy. 

Our parents and teachers are the persons whom 
we ought, in a particular manner, to respect. 

If our friend is in trouble, we, whom he knows 
and loves, may console him. 

7. Thou art the man who ha.4 improved his pn 
vileges, and who will reap the reward. 

I am the person, who owns a fault committed 
and who disdains to conceal it by falsehood. 

8. That sort of pleasure weakens and debases 
the mind. 

Even in these times, there are many persons, who, 
from disinterestod motives, are solicitous to promote 
the happiness of others^ 

SECT. V. 

Exercises on the ninth, tenth, eleventh, end twelfth 
B.ules of Syntax. 






9. ^^Rf^^^^K' discontented person, is not a good 
friend,^^^^^piighbour, or a good subject* 



PARSING. ^ 21 

The young, the aealthy, and the prosperous, 
ahould not presume on their advantages. 

1 0. The scholar's diligence will secure the tutor's 
approbation. 

The good parent's greatest joy, is, to see his chil- 
dren wise and virtuous. 

!1. Wisdom and virtue ennoble us. Vice and 
folly debase us. 

Whom can we so justly love, as them who have 
endeavoured to make us wise and happy ? 

12. When a person has nothing to do, he is al- 
most always tempted to do v/rong. ^ 

We need not urge Charles to do good : he loves 
to do it. 

We dare not leave our studies without permission. 

SECT. VI. 

Exercises on the thirteenth^ fourteenth^ ffieenlh^ six- 
teenth, and sev^fiteenth Rules of S\/ntax^ 

13. The business is, at last, completed ; but long 
ag<srt' intended to do it, 

I expected to see the king, before ne left Wind- 
sor. 

The misfortune did happen : txit we early hoped 
and endeavoured to prevent it. 

To have been censured by so judicious a friend, 
would have greatly discouraged me.* 

14. Having early disgraced himself^ he became 
mean snd dispirited. 

Knowing him to be my superior, I cheerfully sub- 
mitted. 

15. We should always prepare for the worst and 
hope for the best. 

D 



EXERCISES. 

A young man, so learned and virtuous, promises 
to be a very useful member of society. 

When our virtuous friends die, they are not lost 
for ever ; they are only gone before us to a happier 
world. 

16. Neither threatenings, nor any promises, could 
make him violate the truth. . -. -. 

Chavles is not insincere;- and therefore we inay 
trust 1/im. 

17. From whom was that information received ? 
To whom do that house, and those fine gardens^ 

belong ? 

SECT. VIL 

Exercises on the eighteenth, nineteenthy twentieth, 
tzoenty-jirst^ and twejity- second Rules of Syntax. 

18. He and I commenced our studies at the same 
time. 

If we contend about trifles, and violently^-^ain- 
tain our opinion, we shall gaig^but few friends. 

19. Though James and myself are rivals, we do 
not cease to be friends. 

If Charles acquire knowledge, good man nefs., 
and virtue, he will secure esteem. .^. r^ '' 

William is respected, because he is upright and 
obliging. 

20. These persons are abundantly more oppress- 
ed than we are. 

Though I am not so good a scholar as he is,^ 1 am, 
perhaps, noriels Attentive than he, to study. 

21. Charles was a man of knowleilge, learning, 
politeness, and religion. 

In our travels, we saw much to approve, and much 
to condemn. 



PARSING. 23 

22. The book Is improved by many useful cor- 
rections, alterations, and additions. 

She is more talkative and lively than her brother^ 
but not sp_weli informed, nor so uniformly cheerful 



SECT. VIII. 

Promiscuous Exercises in Syntactical Parsing. 

' '^ ^ PROSE. 

Dissimulation in youth, is the forerunner of 
p^2rfidy in old age. Its first appearance is the fatal 
omen of growing depravity, and future shame. . 
. If we possess not the power of self-government, 
w^ shall be the prey of every loose inclination that 
chances to arise*. Pampered by continual indul- 
gence, all our passions will become mutinous and 
headstrong. ^Desire, not reason, will be the ruling 
principle of our conduct. 

Absurdly we spend our time in contending about 
the trifles of a day, \viiile wetDught to be preparing 
for a higher exij^tence. f 

'. How little do tliey know of the true happiness of 
life, who are strangers to that intercmgfteof good of- 
fices and kind affections, which, by a'pifdising charm., 
attaches men to one|janother, and circulates rational 
enjoyment from heart to heart ! 

If we view ourselves, with all our imperfections 
and failings^ in a just light, we shall rather be sur- 
prised at our enjoying soniany good things, than 
disconlonted 5 because there are any which we want. 

True cheerfulness makes a man happy in himself, \ 
and promotes the happiness of all around him. It \ 

is the clear and calm sunshine of a mind illuminated 
by piety and virtue. 

Wherever views of interest and prospects o\ 
return, mingle with iKe feelings of affection, sen- 



S4 E^gRCiSBTS. 

fiibility acts an imperfect part, and entitles us to 
small share of commeiridation. 

Let not your expectations from the years that are 
to come, rise too high ; and your disappointments 
%vill be fewer, and more easily supported. 

To Jive long, ought not to be our favourite wish, 
so much as to live well. By continuing too long on 
^€3rthy we might only live to witness a greater num- 
ber of melancholy scenes, and to expose ourseh^es to 
a wider compass of human wol - ,^.*,^ _^^^ 

How many pass away some of the most valuable 
2^M& of their lives, tost in a whirlpool of what can- 
not be called pleasure, so much as mere giddiness 
and folly ! 

Look royind you with attentive eye, and weigh 
characters we)}, before you connect yourselves too 
closely with any who court your society. 

The true hcnour of man consists not in the mul- 
titude of riches, or the elevation of rank ; for ex- 
perience shows, that these may ba possessed by the 
worthless, as well as by jhe deserving. 

Beauty of form has often betrayed its possessor 
Thejiower is easjJyjDlaste^^t is short-lived at the 
be^^ and trifling, at any rate, in comparison witl 
the a.gher, and more lasting beauties of the mind. 

A conten^j^emper opens a clear sky, and bright 
ens every J|^t around us. It is in the sullen ano 
dark shade of discontent, .that noxious passions, like 
venomous animals, breed* and prey upon the heart. 

Thousands whom indolence has sunk into con- 
teniptible obscurity, might have come forward to 
usefulness and honour,.-if jdleness had not frustrated 
the effects of all their powers. 

Sloth is like the slowly-ftowing, putrid stream, 
which stagnates in the marsh, breeds venomous ani- 
mals and poisonous plants ; and infects with pest'* 
lential vapours the wliole country round it. 



PARSIXG, 



Disappointments derange, and overcome, vulgar 
cnirds. The patient and the wise, by a proper im- 
provement, frequently make them contribute to their 
high advantage. 

Whatever fortune may rob us of, it cannot take 
away what is most valuab].e, (he peace of a good con- 
science, and the cheering prospect of a happy con- 
cluion to all the trials of life, in a better world. 

Be not overcome by the injuries you meet with 
so as to pursue revenge ; by the disasters of life, sc 
as to sink into despair ; by the evil examples of the 
world, so as to follow them mto sin. Overcome 
injuries, by forgiveness ; disasters, by fortitude ; evil 
examples, by nrmness of principle. 

Sobriety of mind is one of those virtues, w^hich 
the present condition of human life strongly incul- 
cates. The uncertainty of its enjoym.ents, checks 
presumption ; the multiplicity of its dangers, de- 
mands perpetual caution. Moderation, vigilance, 
and self-government, are duties incumbent on ail; 
but especially on such as are beginning the journey 
of life. 

The charms and comforts of virtue are inexpres- 
sible ; and can only^be justly conceived by those 
who possess her. The consciousness of Divine ap- 
probation and support, and the steady hope of future 
happiness, communicate a peace and joy, to which 
all the delights of the world bear no resemblance. 

If we knew how much the pleasures of this life 
deceive and betray their unhappy votaries ; and re- 
flected on the disappointments in pursuit, the dis- 
satisfaction in enjoyment, or the uncertainty of pos- 
session, which everywhere attend them ; we should 
cease to be enamoured with these brittle and tran- 
sient joys ; and should wisely fix our hearts on those 
virtuous attainments, which the world can neither 
give nor take awav. 

D 2 



EXERCISES. 



POETRY. 



Order is Heav n's fir&t law ; and this confest, 
Some are, and mi'st be, greater than the rest, 
More rich, more wise ; but who infers from hence, 
That such are happier, shocks aJl common sen^e. 

Needful austerities our wills restrain ; 

As thorns fence in the tender plant from harm. 

Reason's whole pleasure, all the joys of sense, 
Lie in three words, health, peace, and competence 
But health consists with teuiperance alone ; 
And peace, O virtue ! peace is all thy own. 

On earth nought precious is obtain'd,^ 

But what is painful too ; 
By travel and to travel born, 

Our sabbaths are but few. 

Wlico noble ends by noble means obtains, 
Or failing, smiles in exile or in chains, 
Like good Aurelius let him reign, or bleed 
Like Socrates, that man is great indeed. 

• 
Our hearts are fasten'd to this world, 

By strong and endless ties ; 
But every sorrow cuts a string, 

And urges us to rise. 

OR pining cares in rich brocades are drest, 
And diamonds glitter on an anxious breast 

Teach me to feel another's wo. 

To hide the fault I see ; 
That mercy I to others show, 

That mercy show to me. 
This day be bread, and peace, my lot , 

All else beneath the sun. 
Thou know'st if best bestow'd or not, 

And let thy will be done. 



Vice is a monster of so frightful mi eft, 
As, to be hated, needs but to be seen ; 
Yet seen too oft, fHmiliar with her face. 
We first endure, then pity, then pmbrace. 

If nothing more than purpose in thy power, 
Thy purpose firm, is eq^ial to the deed : 
Who does the best his circumstance allow?. 
Does well, acts nobly ; angels couid no mare* 

In faith and hope the world will disagree 
But all mankind's concern is charity. 

To be resigned when ills betide, 
Patieiat when favours are denied. 

And pieas'd with favours given ; 
Most surely this is Wisdom's part, 
This is that incense of the heart, 

W^hose fragrance smells to Heaven. 

Ail fame is foreign, but of true desert ; 

Plays round the head, but comes not to the hear* 

One self-approving hour whole years ouuveigbs» 

Of stupid slarers, and of loud huzzas , 

And more true joy Marcellus exil'd feeis 

Than Caesar with a senate at his heels. 

Far from the madding crowd's ignoble strife, 
Their sober wishes never leara'd to stray ; 

Along the cool sequestered vale of life, 

They kept the noiseless tenor of their way. 

What nothing earthly gives, or can destroy, 
The soul's calm sunshine, and the heartfelt joy 
Ig virtue's prize. 

Pity the sorrows of a poor old man, 
Whose trembling limbs have borne him to yofir dnof^ 
Whose days are dwindled to the shortest span : 
Oh ! give relief, and Heav'n will bless your st-ore 



23 EXERCISER* 

Who lires 'o nature, rarely can be poo? : 
WJio lives to fancy, never can b€ rich. 

When young, life's journey 1 began, 

The glitt'ring prospect charna'd my ey^^ 

I saw, along th' extended plain, 
Joy after joy successive rise. 

But soon I found 'twas all a dream ; 

And iearn'd the fond pursuit to shun 
Where few can reach the purpos'd aim, 

And thousands daily are undone. 

'Tis greatly wise to talk with our past hours ;• 
And ask them, what report they bore to Heav'a* 

All nature is but art unknown to thee ; 

All chance, direction which thou canst not ^a 

All discord, harmony not understood ; 

All partial evil, universal good. 

Heaven's choice is safer than our own i 

Of ages past inquire. 
What the most formidable fate ; 

"To have our own desire." 



If ceaseless, thus, the fowls of Heav'n he imih. 
ff o'er the fields such lucid robes he spreads : 
Will he not care for you, ye faithless. saF 
Ib he unwise ? or, are ye less than they 

The spacious firmament on high, 
With all the blue ethereal sky. 
And spangled heav'ns, a shinmg frame, 
Their great Original proclaim : 
Th' unwearied sun, from day to day, 
Does his Creator's powder display. 
And publishes to ev'^r.y land, 
The work of an Almighty hand 



Soon as the ev'ning shades prevail. 
The moon takes up the wond'rous tal , 
And, nightly, to the hst'ning earth, 
Repeats the story of her birth : 
Whilst all the stars that round her bmf^^^ 
And all the planets in their turn, 
Conlirm the tidings as they roil. 
And spread the truth frona pole to {K^t* 

What tho', in solemn silence, all 
Move round the dark terrestrial bsli i 
What the' nor real voice nor sound. 
Amid their radiant orbs be found i 
In reason's ear they all rejoice, 
And utter forth a glorious voice, 
For ever singing as they shine, 
'* The hand that made us is Diviivc*' 



PART II. 

EXERCISES IN ORTHOGRAPHY. 

CHAP. I. 

Coniaimng iyisiances of false Orthography^ arranged 
nnder the respective Rules. 

Grammar, p. 35. Key, p. l. 
RULE I, 

Ahnosyllahles ending with f, I, or s, preceded by a 
single vowel, double the final consonant ^ as, ^^(^ffy mill, 
pass, <^'c. The only exceptions are, of if as^ is, has, 
was, yes, his, this, us, and thus. 

It is no great merit to spel properly ; but a great 
defect to do it incorrectly. 

Jacob worshiped his Creator, leaning on the top 
of his stafb 

We may place too little, as well as too much stres 
upon dreams. 

Our manners should be neither gros, nor exces- 
sively refined. 

RULE II. 

Monosyllables ending ruith any consonant but f, 1, or 
s, and preceded by a single vowel, never double thi 
final consonant ; excepting only, add, ebb, butt, tgg, 
odd, err, inn, bunn, purr^ and buzz. 
Grammar, p. 35 Key, p. 2. 

A carr signifies a chariot of war, or a small car 
riage of burden. 

In the names of druggs and plants, tht ^ i/take m 
a word may onr^.anger life. 



ORTHOGRAPHT. 31 

Nor nndelightfui is the ceaseless humm 

To him who muses through the woods at noon. 

The firm of a fish is the limb, by which he ba- 
lances his body, and moves in the water= 

Many a trap© is laid to insnare the feet of youth. 

Many thousand families are supported by the 
simple business of making malts. 



RULE III. 

Words ending with y^precededby a consonant^ form 
theplurals of nou.n.s , the persons of verbs, verbalnouns, 
past participles, comparatives, and superlatives, by 
changing y into i ; as spy, spies ; I carry, thou ear- 
nest ; he carrieth or carries ; carrier, carried r hap^ 
py, happier, happiest. 

The present participle ing, retains the y, that 
may not be doubled y as, carry, carrying ; bury, bu* 
rying, di^c. 

But y, preceded by a vowel, in such instances as the 
above, is not changed ; as, boy, boys ; / cloy, he cloys^ 
cloyed, SfC. ; except in lay, pay, and say ^ from which 
are formed^ laid, paid, and said ^ and tfieir co'mpounds, 
unlaid, unpaid, unsaid, S{C. 

Grammar, p. 35. Key^ p. 2 

We should subject our fancys to the government 
ol reason. 

If thou art seeking for the living amongst the dead, 
thou wearyest thyself in vain. 

if we have denyed ourselves sinful pleasures, we 
shall be great gainers in the end. 

We shall not be the happy er far possessing talent-s 
and affluence, unless we make a right use of them. 

The truly good mind is not dismaied by poverty, 
afflictions or deaths 



EXERCvSES. 
RULE IV. 

Words ending with y, preceded ^ty a consonant ^ up- 
9n assuming an additional syllable beginning vrJh a 
consonant^ commonly change y into i] as, happy, hap* 
pily^ happinesso But zvhen y is preceded by a vowel 
it is very rarely changed in the additional syllable : 
as, coy, coyly ; boy, boyish, boyhood ; annoy ^ annoyed^ 
annoyance j joy, joyless, joyful, ^c. 

Grammar, p. 35. Key, p. 2. 

It is a great blessing to have a sound mind, unin- 
fluenced by fancyful humours. 

Common calamities, and common blessings, fail 
heavyly upon the envious. 

The comely ness of youth are modesty and frank- 
ness ; of age, condescension and dignity. 

When we act against conscience, we become the 
destroiers of our own peace. 

We may be plaiful, and yet innocent ; grave, and 
yet corrupt. It is only from general conduct, that 
our fxue character can be portraied. 

RULE V. 

Monosyllables, and words accented on the last syt- 
lable^ ending zmth a single consonant preceded by a 
single vowel, double that consonant, when they take 
another syllable beginning with a vowel : as wit^ zoii^ 
ty ; thin, thinnlsh ; to abet, an abettor ; to begin, a 
beginner. 

But if a diphthong precedes, or the accent is on the 
preceding syllable, the consonant remains single; asy 
to toil, toiling ; to offer, an offering ; maid, maiden^ 

Grammar, p. 35, Key, p. 3 • 

When we bring the lawmaker into contempt, \ye 
have in effect annuled his laws. 

iiy defering our repentance, we accumulate our 
sorrows. 

The pupils of a certain ancient philosopher, were 



ORTHQGRAPH-^., S3 

not, during their first years of study, permitea to 
ask any questions. 

We all have many faillings and lapses to lameni 
and recover. 

There is no affliction with which we are visJtted, 
that may not be improved to our advantage. 

The Christian Lawgiver has prohibitted many 
things, which the heathen philosophers allowed, 

RULE VI. 

Words ending zoith any double letter but 1, and tak^ 
mg ness, less, ly, or ful, after them. preserve the let- 
ter double :as^ harmlessness, carelessness , carelessly, 
stiffly^ successful^ distressful ^ 4^c. But those words 
which end with double I, and take ness, less, ly, or 
ful, after them^ generally omit one 1, as fulness^ skil- 
less ^ fully ^ skilful^ S/c^ 

Grammar, p. 36. Key, p. 3. 

Restlesness of mind disqualifies us, both for the 
enjoyment of peace, and the performance of our 
duty. 

The arrows of calumny fall harmlesly at the feet 
of virtue. 

The road to the blisful regions, is as open to the 
peasant as to the king. 

A chillness or shivering of the body generally 
precedes a fever. 

To recommend virtue to others, our lights mus 
shine brightly, not duUly, 

The silent stranger stoou amaz'd to see 
Contempt of wealth, and willful poverty. 

RULE vu, 

Ness, less, ly, ^ncJful, added to zoords ending with 
iilent e, do not cut it off: as, paleness, guileless, 
dosely, peaceful, except in a fezo words: asy dxUy , 
^uly^ awfuL 

E 



34 EXERCISES 

The warmth of disputation, destroys that sedat* 
ness of mind which is necessary to discover truth 

All these with ceasless praise his works behold, 
Both day and night. 

In all our reasonmgs, our minds should be sin- 
cerly employed in the pursuit of truth. 

Rude behaviour, and indecent language, are pe- 
culiarly disgracful to youth of education. 

The true worship of God is an important and awe- 
ful service. 

Wisdom alone is truely fair: folly only appears so. 

RULE VIII. 

Ment, added to words eyiding with silent e, gene* 
rally preserves the e fro7n elision : as, abatement, 
chastisement, incitement, ^c. The zoords judgment, 
abridgment, acknowledgment, are deviations frorn the 
rule, 

lAke other terminations it changes y into i, ruhen 
preceded hy a consonant : as, accompany^ accompani' 
ment ; merry, merriment. 

Grammar, p. 36. Key, p. 4. 

The Study of the English language is making dai- 
fv aavancment. 

A judicious arrangment of studies facilitates im- 
prtivment. 

To shun allurments is not hard, 

To minds resolv'd, forewarnM, and well prepar'd. 

RULE IX. 

Able and ible, xohen incorporated into words^ end' 
tiig with silent e, almost always cut it off: as, blame^ 
bUitnable ; cure, curable ; sense, sensible, <^c. ; but if 
c or g soft comes before e m the original wordy the 
e is then preserved in words compounded zoith able : 
a>. thange . changeable ; peace, peaceable. &ft> 



ORTHOGRAPHY. ^>t 

Every person and thing connected with self, is 
apt to appear good and desirable in our eyes. 

Errors and misconduct are more excusable in 
ignorant, than in well-instructed persons. 

The divine laws are not reverseible by those of 
men. 

Gratitude is a forceible and active principle in 
good and generous minds. 

Our natural and involuntary defects of body, 
are not chargable upon us. 

We are made to be servicable to others, as well 
as to ourselves. 

RULE X. 

JVhen ing or ish is added to words ending with si- 
tent Qythe e is almost imiversallij omitted: as, place, 
placing ; lodge, lodging ; slave^ slavish ; prude^ 
prudish. 

An obligeing and humble disposition, is totally 
unconnected with a servile and cringeing humour. 

By solaceing the sorrows of others, the heart is 
improved, at the same time that our duty is per-, 
formed. 

Labour and expense are lost upon a droneish 
spirit. 

The inadvertencies of youth ma> beex:cused,but 
knaveish tricks should meet Avith severe reproof. 

RULE XI. 

fVords taken into composition, ojttn drop those let* 
ters which zoere superjluous in their simples : as^ hand* 
fuly dunghil, withal, also, chilblain, for eteL 
Grammar, p. 35. Key, p. 5. 

Love worketh no ill to our neighbour, and is the 
fulifiUing of the law. 

That which is sometimes expedient, is nt)t 
aUways so« 



3^ EXERCISES. (Promiscuous^ 

We may be hurt-full to others, by our examole 
as well as by personal injuries 

Ayhere diligence opens the door of the under- 
standing, and impartiality keeps it^ truth finds an 
entrance and a wellcome too. 

CHAP. II. 

Contmtmig instances of false orthographf, ;?r*> 

miscuously disposed. 

See the Key, p. 5. 

As the learners must be supposed to be tolerably 
versed in the spelling of words in very familiar use, 
the Compiler has generally selected, for the follow- 
ing exercises, such words as are less obviously erro- 
aeous, and in the use of which young persons are 
more likely to commit mistakes. Though the in- 
stances which he gives of these deviations are not 
very numerous, yet, it is presumed, they are exhi- 
bited with sufficient variety, to show the necessity of 
cure and attention in combining letters and sylla- 
bles : and to excite the ingenious student to inves- 
tigate the principles and rules of our Orthography, 
as well as to distinguish the exceptions and varia- 
tions which every where attend them. 

In rectifying these exercises, the Compiler has 
been governed by Doctor Johnson's L')ictionary, a§ 
the standard of propriety. This work is, indisputa- 
oly, the best authority for the Orthography of the 
English language ; though the author, in some in- 
fetances, has made decisions, which are not generally 
approved, and for which it is not easy to account 

SECT. I. 

Key, p. 5. 

Neglect i>o oppurtunity of doing good. 

No man can stedily build upon accidents- 
How shall we keep, what sleeping ov awake, 
A weaker may siirj)nze, a slron^er take ^ 



Promiscuous.) orthography. 37 

Neither time nor misfortunes should eraze the re- 
memberance of a friend. 

Moderation should presidt?, both in the kitchin 
and the parlor. 

Shall we recieve good at the Divine hand, and 
shall we not recieve evil ? 

In many designs, we may succede and be misera^ 
ble. 

We should have sence and virtue enough to re- 
ceed from cur demands, w^hen they appear to be un- 
resonable. 

All our comforts procede from the Father of 
Goodness. 

The ruin of a state is generally preceeded by a 
universal degenaracy of manners, and a contempt 
of religion. 

His father omited nothing, in his education, that 
might render him virtuous and usefull. 

The daw In the fable was dressed in pilferred or- 
naments. 

A fa»voT confered with delicacy, doubles the ob- 
hgation. 

They tempted their Creator, and limitted the 
Holy One of Tzrael. 

The precepts of a good education have' often re- 
cured in the time of need. 

We are frequently benefitted by what we have 
Jreaded. 

It is no great virtue to live loveingly with gooa 
latured and meek persons. 

The Christian religion gives a more loviy dia- 
meter of God, than any religion ever did.. 

Without sinsterous views, they are dextrous ma- 
aagers of their own interest. 

Any thing commited to the trust and care of ^no 
cher is a deposit. 



Here finnish'd he, and all that lie had made 
All V 
E2 



V^ieuM and beheld ! All was intirelv good 



2B EXERCISES. {Promiscuous, 

It deserves uur best skil to enquire into those 
rules by which we may guide our judgement. 

Food, clotheing, and habitations, are the rewards 
of industry. 

If w^e lie no restraint upon our lusts, no controuJ 
upon our apetites and passions, they will hurry us 
into guilt and misery. 

An Independant is one who, in religious affairs 
holds that every congregation is a compleat Church 

Receive his council, and securly move : 
Entrust thy fortune to the Power above. 

Following life in cretures we disect^. 
We lose it in the moment we detect. 

' The acknowledgement of our transgressions mus/ 
precede the forgivness of them. 

Judicious abridgements often aid the studys ol 
youth. 

Examine how thy humor is encHn'd, *' 
And v/hich the i uleing passion of thy mind. 

-He Aiulters at the question : 



His fears, his words, his looks, declare hiin guilty. 

Calico^ is a thin cloth made of cotton , sometimes 
stained with lively colors. 

To promote iniquity in others, is nearly the same 
as being the acters of it ourselvs. 

The glasier^s business was unknown to the antientSc 

The antecedant, in grammer, is the noun or pro- 
noun to which the relative refers. 

SECT. 11. 

Key, p. 7. 

Be not affraid of the wicked : they are under thi* 
controul of Providence. Consciousness of guih 
i^y jusdy afright us. 

Convey to others no int^ligence which you would 
be ashamed to avow. ^ 



Promiscuous.) oaxHOGRAPHr. 30" 

Many are weighed in the ballance, and found 
wanting. 

How many disapointments have, in their conse- 
quences, saved a man from ruin ! 

Aweil-poised mind makes a chearful countenance. 

A certain housholder planted a viuyard, but the 
men imployed in it made ungratefull returns. 

Let us show diliigence in every laudibie under- 
taking. 

Cinamon is the fragrant bark of a low tree in the 
Hand of Ceylon. 

A ram will but with his head, though he be 
Drought up tame, and never saw the action. 

We percieve a piece of siiver in a bason, when 
water is poured on it, though we could not discover 
it before* 

Virtue inibalms the memory cf the good. 

The king of Great j^rjltciin is a limiiied monarch ; 
and the Brittish natiori'^a [rei^ people. 

The phisician may dispence the medicin,=.but 
Providence alone can bless it. 

In manj^ pursuits we jhibark with pleasure, and 
land sorrowfully. 

Rocks, mountains, and caverns, are of indispen- 
sible use, both to the earth and to man. 

The hive of a city, or kingdom, is in the best con* 
dition, when their is the least noize or buz in it. 

The roughnesses found on our enterance into th« 
paths of virtue and learning, grow smoother as we 
advance. *. 

That which was once the most beautifull spot of 
Italy, coverred wath pallaces, imbellistied by prin- 
ces, and cellebrated by poets, has now nothing to 
show but ruins. 

Batterring rams were antiendy used to beat down 
the walls of a city. 

Jocky signifies a man who rides horses in a racey 
or who deals m horses. 



40 EXERCISES. {PromtJ u^tXS, 

The harmlesness of many animals, and the mjoy- 
ment which they have of life, should plead for them 
against cruel useage. 

We may be very buzy, to no usefull purpose. 

We cannot plead in abatment of our guilt, that 
we are ignorent of our duty. 

Genuine charaty, how liberal soever it may b^ 
will never impoverish ourselves. If we sew spar 
ingly, we shall reap acordingly. 

However disagreable, we must resolutly perfbrn 
our duty. 

A fit of sickness is often a kind chastisment and 
disciplin, to moderate our affections for the things 61 
this life. 

It is a happyness to young persons, when they 
are preserved from the snares of the world, as in a 
garden inclosed. 

Health and peace, the most valueable posessions, 
are obtained at small expence. 

Incence signifies perfumes exhailed by fire, and 
made use of in religious ceremonies. 

True happyness is an ennemy to pomp and noize 

Few reflexions are more distresing., than thost 
which we make on our own ingratitude. 

There is an inseperable connection between piet> 
and virtue. 

Many actions have a fair complection, which have 
not sprung from virtue. 

Which vv'ay soever we turn ourselvs, we are in- 
countered with sensable demonstrations of a Deity. 

If we forsake the ways of virtue, we cannot alledge 
any color of ignorance, or want of instruction. 

SECT. III. 

Key, p. 9. 

There are more cultivaters of the earth, than of 

fii^^Mr own hearts. 

M?n.io mcoinpasscd with dangers innumerab!*»,: 



Praiiiiscuoiis.) ORXHooRAPHr. 41 

War is attended with distresful and dessolating ef • 
fects. It is confesedly the scorge of our angry pas- 
sions. 

The earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof. 

The harvest truely is plenteous, but the laborers 
are few. 

The greater our incitments to evil, the greater 
will be our victory and reward. 

We should not incourage persons to do what they 
beleive to be wrong. 

Virtue is placed between two extreams, which 
are both equally blameable. 

We should continually have the gaol in our view, 
ivhich v/ould direct us in the race. 

The goals were forced open, and the prisoners 
set free. 

It cannot be said th'at we are charitible doners, 
?vhen our gifts proceed from selfish motives. 

Straight is the gate, and narrow the way that 
.ead to life eternal. 

Integrity leads us strait forward, disdaining all 
doubleings, and crooked paths. 

Licenciousness and crimes pave the way to ruin. 

Words are the countres of wise men, but the mo- 
ney of fools. 

Recompcnce to no man evil for evil. 

He was an excellent person ; a mirrour of anti- 
ent faith in early youth. 

Meekness controuls our angry passions , candor, 
our severe judgements. 

He is not only a descendent from pious ancesters, 
but an inheriter too of their virtues. 

A dispensatory is the place where medicines are 
dispensed : a dispensary is a book in vhich the 
composition of them is described. 

Faithfulness and judgment are peculiarly requisit 
in testamentory executors. 

To be faithfull among the faithlf^ss, argues great 
strength of principal; 



42 EXERCISES* {Promiscuouim 

Mountains appear to be like so many wens or 
unatural protuberancies on the face of the earth. 

In some places the sea incroaches upon the land ; 
in others, the land upon the sea. 

Philosophers agreed in despizing riches, as th-e 
mcumberances of life. 

Wars are regulated robberries and pyracies. 

Fishes encrease more than beasts or birds, as ap- 
pears from their numrous spaun. 

The piramids of Egypt have stood more than 
three thousand years. 

Precepts have small influence, when not inforced 
by example. 

How has kind Heav'n adorn'd the happy land, 
And scatter'd blessings with a wastful hand I 

A friend exaggarates a man's virtues, an enemy 
enflames his crimes. 

A witty and humourous vein has often produced 
ennemies. 

Neither pleasure nor buziness should ingross our 
time and affections ; proper seasons should be 
alotted for retirment. 

It is laudable to enquire before we determin. 

Many have been visitted with afflictions, who 
have not profitted by them. 

We may be succesful, and yet disappointed, 

SECT. IV. 

Key, p. 11. 

The experience of want inhances the value Oi 
plenty. 

To maintain opinions stifly, is no evidence of 
their truth, or of our moderation. 

Horehound has been famous for its medecina) 
qualities ; but it is now little used. 

The wicked are often ensnared in the trap which 
they lie for others. 



Promiscuous.) orthography. 43 

It is hard to say what diseases are cureable : they 
are all under the guidence of Heaven. 

Instructors should not only be skillfull in those 
sciences which they teach ; but have skil in the me- 
thod of teaching, and patience in the practise. 

Science strengthens and inlarges the minds ofmen. 

A steady mind may receive council : but there is 
no hold on a changablc humour. 

We may enure ourselvs by custom, to bear the 
extremities of whether v/ithout injury. 

Excessive rnerryment is the parent of greif. 

Air is sensable to the touch by its motion, and by 
ts resistence to bodies moved in it. 

A polite address is sometimes the cloke of malice. 

To practice virtue is the sure way to love it. 
/ Many things are plausable in theory, which fail 
« practise. 

Learning andknowlege must be attained by slow 
degrees : and are the reward only of dilligence and 
patience. 

We should study to live peacably with all men. 

A soul that can securly death defy, 
And count it nature's priviledge to die. 

Whatever promotes the interest of the soul, is al- 
so condusive to our present felicity. 

Let not the sterness of virtue afright us 5 she will 
soon become aimable. 

The spatious firmament on high. 
With all the blue etheriel sky, 
And spangled heav'ns a shineing frame, 
Their great Ckiginel proclame. 

Passion is the drunkeness of the mmd : it super- 
cedes the workings of reason. 

If we are sincere, we may be assured of an advo- 
'cate to intersede for us. 

We ought net to consider the encrease of another's 
imputation, as a dimminution of our own. 



44 EXERCISES. {Promiscuous* 

The ruematism is a painful distemper, supposed 
to precede from acrid humors. 

The beautiful and accomplished, are too apt to 
study behaivour rather than virtue. 

The peazant's cabbin contains as much content 
as the soverein's pallace. 

True valor protects the feeble, and humbles the 
oppress er. 

David, the son of Jesse, was a wise and valient 
man. 

Prophecies and miracles proclamed Jesus Christ 
to be the Savior of the world. 

Esau sold his birthright for a savory mess of pot^ 

A regular and virteous education, is an inesteem 
able blessing. 

Honor and shame from no condition rise : 
Act well 3^our part ; there, all the honor lies. 
The rigor of monkish disciplin often conceals 
great depravity of heart. 

We should recollect, that however favorable we 
may be to ourselves, we are rigourously examined 
by others. 

SECT V. 

Key, p. 13. 

Virtue can render youth, as well as old age, ho- 
norable. 

Rumor often tells false tales. 

Weak munds are rufled by triffling things. 

The cabage-tree is very common in the Caribbee 
ilands, where it grows to a prodigious heighth. 

Visit the sick, feed the liiingry, cloath the naked* 

His smiles and tears are too artifitial to be relied 
on. 

The most essensial virtues of a Christian, are loyc ' 
to God and benevolence to man. 

We should be chearful wuhout levity. 



Promiscuous,) orthography. 44 

A calender signifies a register of the year ; and a 
calendar, a press in which clothiers smooth their 
cloth. 

integrity and hope are the sure paliatives of sor- 
row. 

Camomile is an odom^ifcrous plant, and possesses 
considerable medicinel virtues. 

The gaity of youth should be tempered by the 
precepts o4 age. 

Certainty, even on distresful occasions, is som- 
times more elligible than suspence. 

Still green with bays each antient alter stands, 
Above the reach of sacriligious hands. 

The most acceptable sacrifise. is that of a coUrite 
and humble heart. 

We are accountable for whatever we patronize in 
C'thcrs. 

It marks a savage disposition, to tortur animals^ 
lo mako them smart and agonise, for our diversion. 

The edge of cloath, where it is closed by compli- 
cating the threads, is called the selvidge. 

Soushong tea and Turky coffee were his fcvorite 
beveridge ; chocolade he seldom drank. 

The guilty mind cannot avoid many melanchoily 
apprehensions. 

If we injure others, we must expect retalliation. 

Let every man be fully perswaded in his own 
ojmd. 

Peace and honor are the sheeves of virtue's har- 
vest. 

The black earth, every where obvious on the sur- 
face of the ground, w^e call mold. 

The Roman pontif claims to be the supream head 
of the church on earth. 

. High-seasoned food viciates the pallate, and oc- 
casions a disrelish for plain fare. 

The conscious receivor is as bad as the thief. 

F 



46 EXERCISES. {Promiscuouf* 

Alexander, the conquere' ol uae world, was, in 
fact, a robber and a murderer. 

The Divine Being is not or. y ine Greater, but the 
Ruler and Preservor of the world. 

Honest endeavors, if persevered in, will finally 
be succesful. 

He who dies for religion, is a martyr : he who 
suffers for it, is a confessour. 

In the paroxism of passion, we sometimes give 
occasion for a life of repentence. 

The mist which invelopes many studies, is dissi- 
pated w^hen we approach them. 

The voice is sometimes obstructed by a hoars- 
ness, or by viscuous phlegm. 

The desart shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. 

The fruit and sweatmeats set on table after the 
meat, are called the desert. 

We traversed the flowry fields, till the falling 
dews admonished us to return. 

SECT. VI. 

Key, p. J 5. 

There is fi'equently a worm at the root of oui 
most florishing condition. 

The stalk of ivey is tough, and not fragil. 

The roof is vaulted, and distills fresh water from 
every part of it. 

Our imperfections are discernable by others, 
when we think they are concealedo 

They think they shall be beared for there much 
speaking. 

True criticizm is not a captious, but a liberal art. 

Integrity is our best defense against the evils of 
life. 

No circumstance can licence evil or dispence 
with the rules of virtue. 

We may be cyphers in the world's estimation, 
whilst we are advancing our own and others' value. 



Promiscuofis.) orthograput. 47 

The path of vertue is the path of peace. 

A dipthong is the coilition of two vowels to form 
one sound. 

However forceable our temptations, they may 
be resisted. 

I acknowlege my transgression ; and my sin is 
tvt'V before me. 

I'he coUedge of cardinals are the electers of the 

He had no colorable excuse to palliate his con- 

JULt. 

Thy humoarous vein, thy pleasing foliy, 
Lie all neglected, all forgot. 

If we are so conceited a.s obstinatly to reject ah 
advice, we must expect a direlictlon of friends. 

Cronology is the science of compiiteing and 
ajusting the periods of time. 

In groves we live, and lay on mossy beds, 

By chrystal streams, that murmer tiirough the meads. 

It is a secret co wardis-e which induces us to com- 
plement the vices of our superiors, to applaud the 
lil>ertin, and laugh with the prophane. 

The lark each morning waked me with her 
spiitely lay. 

There are no fewer than thirty-two species of 
the lilly. 

We owe it to our visitors eis well as to o«rselve«. 
to entertain them with useful and sensable conver- 
sation. 

Sponsers are those who become sureties for the 
children's education in the christian faith. 

The warrier's fame is often purchased by the 
blood of thousands. 

Hope exhilerdtes the mind, and is the grand 
elixer, under all the evils of life. 

The incence of gratitude, whilst it expresses 
our duty, and honors our benefacter, perfume 
and regails ourselves 



PART III. 

EXEKCISES IN StNTAIK. 

CHAP. I. 

^oniaining instances of false SrnTAXy disposed under 
the particular Rules, 



RULE I. 

A verb must agree with its nominative case^ in num-* 
htr and person: as^ *^Ilcar7i;'^\^^ Thou art improved ;^^ 
"7%e birds sing.^^ 

Grammar, p. 126. Key, p. 18. 

Disappointments sinki? the heart of man ; but 
the renewal of hope give'consolation. 

The smiles that encourage severity of judgment 
hidel malice and insincerity. 

He dare, not act contrary to his instructions. 

Fifty pound^ of wheat contains forty pound| ol 
tio\n% 

The mechanism or clocks and watches, \vere total- 
ly unknown a few centuries ago* 

The number of inhabitants of Great Britain 
and Ireland, doiHOt exceed sixteen millions. 

Nothing but vain and foolish pursuit^ delight som? 
persons. 

A variety of pleasing objects charm the eye. 

So much both of ability and merit are seldom 
found. 



fiule 1.) SYNTAX. 4a 

In the conduct of Parmenio a mixture of wisxfem 
and folly were'very conspicuous. 

He is an author of more credit than Plutarch, 0€ 
any other that writer lives too hastily. 

The inquisitive and curious is generally talkative. 

Great pains ]ia«^ been taken to re<;oncile the pap- 

I am sorry to say it, but there was more equivo- 
cators than one^ , 

The sincere fe^lways esteemed. 

Has the goods been sold to advantage ? and did 
thou embracj^ the proper season ? 

There IS niany occasions in life, in which silence 
and simplicity is true wisdom. 

The generous never recounts minutely the actions 
they nave done •, nor the prudent, those they will do. 

He need not proceed in such haste. 

The business that related to ecclesiastical meet- 
iflgs(, matters, and persons, w^lo be ordered ac- 
cording to the Idng's direction. 

In him were happily blended true dignity with 
si>ftness of manners. 

The support of so many of his relations, were a 
heavy tax upon his industry : but thou knows he 
[^id it cheerfully. 

What avails the best sentiments, if persons do nol 
live suitably to them ? 

Reconciliation was offered, on conditions as mo- 
derate as ^wa^ consistent with a permanent union.. 

Not oipe of them whom thou sees clothed in pur^ 
pie, are completely happy. 

And the fame of this person, andof his wonderfid 
actions, were diffused throughout the country. 

The variety of the productions of genius, like tlia. 
of the operations of nature, are without limit. 

hi vain our flocks and fiekis incrccise our stem 
When our abundance make^ us wish for inoj:^. 



50 EXERCISES. (Rtilt !• 

Thou should loves'thy neighbour as sincerely a« 

Aou loves thyself. 

Has^thou no better reason for censuring ihy fnend 
and companion ? 

Thou, who art the Author and Bestower of life, 
tan doubtless restore it also : but whether thou will 
please to restore it, or not, that thou only knows. 

O thou my voice inspire, 

Who touch'd Isaiah's hallow M lips with fire. 

Accept these grateful tears ; for thee they flow ; 

For thee that ever felt another's wo. 

Just to thy word, in ev'ry thought sincere ; 

Who knew.no wish but what the world might hea 

The following examples are adapted to the notes and 
observatiojis wider rule !• 

Grammar, p. 126. Key, p. 20. 

L"* To do unto all men, as we would that they^ 
in similar circumstances should do unto us, consti- 
tute the great principle of virtue. 

From a fear of the world's censure, to be ashamed 
of the practice of precepts, which the heart approves 
and embraces , mark.a feeble and imperfect character. 

The erroneous opinions which we form concern- 
ing happiness and misery, givej rise to all the mis- 
taken and dangerous passions that embroils our life. 

To live soberly, nghteously, and piously, arfe I'e- 
quired of al! men. 

That it is our duty to promote the purity of our 
minds and bodies, to be just and kind to our fellow* 
cieatures, and to be pious and faithful to Him that 
made us, admit not of any doubt i« a rational anrC 
well-informed mind. 

To be of a pure and humble mind, to exercise be 
tievolence towards others, to cultivate piety toward* 

* The examples under each rule are regularly numbered, tomak«» 
%«m correspond to tlie respective subordinate rules in the Grammiu. 



Rntt !%} sVAiTAX. 5) 

God, Is the sMte mt^ns of becoming peaceful and 
happy* 

It is an mportant truth, that religion, vital reli- 
gion, the religion of the heart, are the most power- 
ful auxiliaries of reason, in waging war with the 
passions, and promoting that sweet composure 
which constitute the peace of God, 

The possession of our senses entire, of our limbs 
uninjured, of a sound understanding, of friends and 
companions, arte often overlooked; though it would 
be the ultimate wish of many, who, as far as we can 
judge, de-serve^ it as much as ourselves. 

All that make^a figure on the great theatre of the 
world, the employments of the busy, the enterprises 
of the ambitious, and the exploits of the warlike; 
the virtues which form^ the happiness, and the crimes 
which occasions the misery of mankind ; originate^ 
in that silent and secret recess of thought, which 
ure hidden from every human eye. 

2. If the privileges to which he has an undoubted 
right, arid he has long enjoyed, should now be wrest- 
ed from him, would be flagrant injustice. 

y^Phese curiosities we have imported from China, 
ana are similar to those which were some time ago 
brought from Africa, 

Will martial flames for ever fire thy mind. 
And never, never be to Heav'n resign'd ? 

3. 'Two substantives, wb^n they oome together 
and do not signify the same thing, the former must 
be in the genitive case. 

Virtue, however ft may be neglected for a time, 
men are so constituteii as ultimately to acknowledge 
and respect genuine merit. 

4. The crown of virtue is peace and honour. 

. His chief occupation and enjoyment were coa- 
^Qv^rsy. 



-Him destroy'^, 



Or won to what may work his utter loss, 
AU this will soon follow, 

' Whose gray top 

Shall tremble, him descending. 

RULE II. 

Two or more nounsy ^c. in the singular nun^tf^ 
joined together by a copulative conjunction^ expressed 
or understood^ must have verbs ^nouns, and pronou7is , 
agreeing with them in theplur^tl number : aSy^^Socrates 
and Plato were wise ; thei/ zvere the most eminent phi* 
losophers of Greece ^^^ " The sun that rolls over our 
heads, the food thai zoe receive, the rest that we enjoy, 
daily admonish us of a superior and a superintending 
power*^^ 

tf ram mar, p. 130. Key, p. 2^ 

Idleness and ignorance is theparentpf many vices. 

Wisdom, virtue, happiness, dwells with the golden 
mediocrity. 

In unity consists the welfare and security of every 
society. 

Time and tide waitii for no man. 

His politeness and good disposition was, on fail* 
ure of their effect, entirely changed. 

Patience and diligence,, like faith, remove$ moun* 
lains. 

Humility and knowledge, with poor apparel> ex- 
cels pride and ignorance under costly attire. ^ 

The planetary system, boundless space, and tke 
immense ocean, affect^ the mind with sensations of 
astonishn:ient. 

Humility and love, whatever obscurities mav in- 
volve religious tenets, constitutes th^ essence oi true 
ireligion.. 

^ Religion and virtue, our best support and higkcst 
tKinour, confer^ on the mind principles of noble m 



Rule $•) SYNTAX. aj 

What signified the counsel and care of preceptors, 
when youth think they have no need of assistance ? 

Ute examples which follow are suited to the notes and 

observations under rule ii. 

Grammar, p. 130. Key, p. 23, 

. 1. Much do^ human pride and self-complacency 
require correction. "^ " ' '^ 

Luxurious living, and high pleasures, begets a 
languor and satiety that destroy! all enjoyment/ 

Pride and self-sufficiency stiflel sentiments of de- 
pendence on our Creator : levity and attachment to 
worldly pleasures, destroy! the sense of gratitude 

to him. 

t 

2. Good order in our affairs, not mean saving!, 
produceigreat profits, '' 

The following treatise, together with those that 
accompany it, were written many years ago, for my 
own private satisfaction. 

That great senator, in concert with several other 
eminent personsT^PM^ the projectors of the revolu- 
tion. 

The religion of these people, as well as their cus- 
toms and manners, ^ii^i* 'strangely misrepresented. 

Virtue, joined to knowledge and v/ealth, confer 
great influence and respectability. But knowledge, 
with wealth united, if virtue is wanting, have a very 
limited influence, and ard often despised. 

That superficial scholar and critic, like some re- 
nowned critics of our own, ba^^furnished most de- 
cisive proofs, that |he;^ knew^iot the characters of 
the Hebrew language. 

The buildings of the institution have been enlarg- 
fidi the expense of which, added to the increased 
price of provisions, render it necessary to advance 
ihe terms of admission. -Pj. , a 

Q\\^^ added to nineteen, make.twenty. 



JMk EXERCISES. {Rute 3. 



1^ at black despair, what horror, fill| his mind f 



Thou, and the gardener, and the huntsman. 
must share the blame of this business amongst thenu 
M-y sister and I, as well as my brother, are daily 
employed in lh«ir respective occupations. 

RULE III. 

The conjunction disjunctive has an effect contrary 
to that of the conjunction copulative ; for as the verb^ 
nouHy or pronoun^ is referred to the preceeding terms 
taken separatel^^ it must be in the singular number ; 
as, *^ Ignorance or negligence has caused this mistakef^^ 
**Joh7iy James, or Joseph, intends to accompany me ;'' 
*^There is, in many minds, neither knowledge nor un- 
derstanding.'^^ i 

Grammar, p. 133. Key, i).^3. 

Man's happiness, or misery, ape, in a great mea* 
sure put into his own hands. 

Man is not such a machine as a clock or a watch, 
which move merely as they are moved. 

Despise no infirmity of mind or body, nor any 
condition of life : for they are, perhaps to be your 
own lot. 

Speaking impatiently to servants, oKany thing 
that betrays inattention or ill-humour ai^ certainly 
criminal. 

There are many faults in spelling, which neither 
analogy nor pronunciation justify. 

When sickness, infirmity, or reverse of fortune 
affect us, the sincerity of friendship is proved. 

Let it be remembered, that it is not the uttering, 
or the hearing of certain words, that constitute the 
worship of the Almighty. 

A tart reply, a proneness to rebuke, or a captiouJi 
and contradictious spirit, are capable of imbittering 
domestic life, and of setting friends at variance. 

The following sentences ex^empHfy the notes and 

observations under rule hi. 

Grammar, p. 133. Key, p. 24 




Rult 4.) SYNTAX. £3^::^-^ ^^ 5b 

1. Either thou or I art greatly mistaken, in our 
judgment on this subject. -^ 

I or thou am* the person jtvho must undertake the 
business proposed. / 

2. Both of the scholars, or one of them at least 
was present at the transaction. 

Some parts of the ship and cargo were recovered ; 
but neither the sailors nor the captain, was saved. 

Whether one person or more Avas concerned in 
the business, Moes not yet appear. 

The cares of this life, or the deceitfulness af 
nches, has choked the seeds of virtue in many a 
promising mind. X- 

//: /• ^^^^ ^^- 0^ 

J A nomi of rtxuliitude y or signifying many^ may nave 
^^erb or pronoun agreeing with it^ either of the sin- 
gular or plural number ; yet not without regard to the 
ttnport of the word, as conveying unity or plurality of 
idea: as, " The meeting zoas large ;'^^ " The parlia- 
meni is dissolved ^'^'^ ^^The nation is powerful ^'^^ ^^My 
veopli do not consider : they have not known me ;" 
" 7%d multitude eagerly pursue pleasure as their 
chief good ^'^'^ " The council were divided in their 
sentimeyits,^'' 

Grammar, p. 134. Key, p. 24. 

The people rejoice^ in that which should give $ 
sorrow. ^ , 

The flock, and not the fleece, it¥e, or ought to be, 
(he objects of tha shepherd's care. 

The court haSl^just ended, after hav.'ng sat 
through the trial of a very long cause. 

The crowd w^ so great, that the judges with 
difficulty made their way through Aem. i^ 

The corporation of York consist of a mayor, al- 
jJermen, and a common council. 
* TBe British parliament km, composed of liWg, 
loTfU, and commons. 




66 \% •►, tk^virii exilroises. (Ruh b. 

\Vhen the nation coniplain^ the rulers should listen 



to stbfiir voice. 

In the days of youth, the multitude eagerly pur 
sue$ pleasure as its chief good, 

'The church -fev^ no power to inflict corporal pu- 
nishment. *,/0^ 

The fleet v^¥e :>Qe,n sailing up the channel. 

The regiment c.0n3i^K^of a thousand men. 

The meeting lm¥^ established several salutary 
reo;ulations. ...... 

The council tvas not unanimous, and it separated 
without coming to any determination. 

The fleet is all arrived and moored in safety. 

Ttris people draweth near to me w^ith their mouth/^ ^ 
and honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is 
far from me. . ../Vi- 

The committeeavas divided in its sentiments, and 
It has referred the l^iisiin^ss to the general meeting. 

The committee 'we*€ very full when this point 
was decided ; and their judgment has not been call- 
ed in queSjtipn. 

Why do this generation wish for greater evidence, 
when so much is already given ? 

The remnant of the people :^ert persecuted with 
great sevej;ij;y5^. . 

Never were any people so much infatuated as the 
Jewish nation. /t^ V "^' 

The shoal of herrings were of an immense extent. 

No society are chargeable with the disappri ved 
misconduct of particular members. 

RULE V. 

Pronouns musi always agree with their antecedents 
and the nouns for which they stand in gender (mi 
number ; as^ *' This is the friend whom I lovi ;^ 
*' This is the vice zuhich I hate ;" '* The king and Ihi 
queen had put on their robes ;" ^^The moon appears t 
"nd she shines ^ but the light is not her ozu/i." 



Rule 5.) SYNTAX. S? 

The relative is of the same person as the antzce* 
denty and the verb agrees loith it accordingly : is, 
" TTiouwho lovest wls'dom ;'^^ *' I who speak from tx* 
pdrience,'^' 

Grammar, p. 135. Key, p. 26 

The exercise of reason appears as little in these 
sportsmen, as in the beasts whom they sometimes 
bunt, and by whom they are sometimes hunted. 

They which seek wisdom will certainly find ber. 

The male amongst birds seems to discover no 
beauty, but in the colour of its species. 

Take handfuls of ashes of the furnace, and let 
Moses sprinkle it tcsvards hea\en, in the sight of 
Pharaoh ; and it shall become small dust. 

Rebecca took goodly raiment, which w^ere with 
her in the house, and put them upon Jacob. 

The w^heel killed another man, which is the sixtli 
which have lost their lives, by this means. 

The fair sex, whose task is not to mingle in the la- 
bours of public life, has its own part assigned it to act. 

The Hercules man of war foundered at sea ; she 
overset, and lost most of her men. 

The mind of man cannot be long without some 
food to nourish the activity of his thoughts* 

What is the reason that our lan<>:ua2:e is less re- 
fined than those of Italy, Spain, or France? 

I do not think any one should incur censure for 
being tender of their reputation. 

Tnou who has Deen a witness of the fact, can give 
^n account of it. 

In religious concerns, or what is conceived to be 
iuch, every man must stand or fall by the decisioa 
of the Great Judge. 

Something like what have been here premis^, 
ire the conjectures of Dryden. 

Thou great First Cause, least understood ! 

Who all my sense confined 
To Hnow but this, that thou art good, 
G 



58 EXERCISES. (JRuU 5^ 

And that myself am blind : 
Yet gave me in this dark estate, &c. 

What art thou, speak, that, on designs unknown, 
While others sleep, thus range the camp alone 

The following examples are adapted to the notes and 
ohservations under rule v. 
GFammar, p. 135. Key, p. 3^. 

1. "Whoever entertains such an opinion, he judges 
erroneously. 

The cares of this world they often choke the 
growth of virtue. 

Disappointments and afflictions, however disa- 
greeable, they often improve us. 

2. Moses was the meekest man whom we read at 
in the Old Testament. 

Humility is one of the most amiable virtues which 
we can possess. 

They are the same persons who assisted us yester- 
day. 

The men and things which he has studied have 
not improved his morals. 

3. Howsoever beautiful they appear, they have 
no real merit. 

In whatsoever light we view him, his conduct 
will bear inspection. 

On whichsoever side they are contemplated, they 
appear to advantage. 

However much he might despise the maxims o. 
the king's administration, he kept a total silence on 
tJiat subject. 

4. Which of them two persons has most distin 
guished himself? 

None more impatiently suffer injuries, than those 
that are most forward in doing them. 

5. He would not be persuaded but what I was 
greatly in fault. 



RuU 5.) SYNTAX. 59 

These commendations of his children, appear to 
have been made in somewnat an injudicious manner. 

6. He instructed and fed the crowds who sur 
rounded him. 

Sidney Avas one of the wisest and most active 
governors, which Ireland had enjoyed for several 
years. 

He was the ablest minister which James ever 
possessed. 

The court, who gives currency to manners, ought 
to be exemplary. 

I am happy in the friend which 1 have long proved. 

7. The child wh^i we have just seen, is whole- 
somely fed, and not injured by band^iges or clothing. 

He is like a beast of prey, who destroys without 

pity. >-^ 

8. Having once disgusted him, he could never 
regain the favour of Nero, who was indeed another 
name for cruelty. 

Flattery, whose nature is to deceive and betray, 
should be avoided as the poisonous adder. 
Who of these men came to his assistance ? 

9. The king dismissed his minister without any 
inquiry , who had never before committed so unjust 
an action. 

There are millions of people in the empire of 
Chma, whose support is derived almost entirely 
from rice. 

lOo It is remarkable his continual endeavours to 
serve us, notwithstanding our ingratitude. 

I^ is indisputably true his assertion, though it is 
a paradox. 

11. Ah ! unhappy thee, who art deaf to the calls 
«f duty, and of honour. 

Oh ! happy we, surrounded with so many bless- 
ings. 



(^ EXERCISES. (Rule 6. 

RULE Vt 

The relative is the nominahve case to the tefb^ 
when no nominative case comes between it and the 
verb : as^ " The master who taught us /'^ " T%e trees 
which are planted.'^^ 

When a nominative comes between the relative 
and the verb, the relative is governed by some uord 
in its own member of the sentence : as, '* He who 
preserves mc, to whom I owe my beings whose I am, 
and whom I serve, is etemaL^"^ 

Grammar, p. 139. Key, p 29. 

We are dependent on each other's assistance: 
whom is there that can subsist by himself? 

If he will not hear his best friend, whom shall be 
sent to admonish him ? 

They, who much is given to, will have much to 
answer for. 

It is not to be expected that they, whom in early 
life, have been dark and deceitful, should afterwards 
become fair and ingenuous. 

They who have laboured to make us wise and 
good, are the persons who we ought to love and re- 
KDect, and who we ought to be grateful to. 

The persons, who conscience and virtue support 
may smile at the caprices of fortune. 

From the character of those who you associate 
with^ your own will be estimated. 

That is the student who I gave the book to, and 
whom, I am persuaded, deserves it. 

1 . Of whom were the articles bought ? Of a mer- 
cer ; he who resides n^ear the mansion house. 

Was any person besides the mercer present ? Yes, 
both him and his clerk. 

Who was the money paid to ? To the mercer and 
his clerk 

Who counted it ? Both the clerk and him* 



Rule 7, 8.) SYNTAX, 61 

RULE VII. 

JV/ieji the relative %s preceded by two nominatives 
\f different persons^ the relative and verb may agree 
in person with either, according to the sense; as, "7 
am the man who command you f' or, ''larn the man 
mho commands yoiu^^ 

Grammar, p. 141. Key, p. 30. 

I acknowledge that I am the teacher, who adopt 
that sentiment, and maintains the propriety of such 
m,easure3. 

Thou art a friend thathas^often relieved me, and 
that has not deserted me now in the time of pecuhar 
need. 

I am the man who approves of wholesome disci- 
pline, and who recommendjt to others; but I am 
aot a person who promotes useless severity, or who 
object to mHd and generous treatment. 

I perceive that thou art a pupil, who possesses 
bright parts, but who has cultivated them but little. 

Thou art he who breathest on the earth with the 
breath of spring, and who covereth it with verdure 
and beauty. 

I am the Lord thy God, who teacheth thee to pro- 
fit, and who lead thee by the way thou shouldst go» 

Thou art the Lord who did choose Abraham, and 
^I'oughtcst him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees^ 

RULE VIII. 

Every adjective, and every adjective pronoun, be* 
longs to a substantive expressed or understood ^ as 
** He IS a good, as well as a v/ise man ;" *' Few art 
happy ;" that is, persons ;" '' This is a pleasant 
walk ;^'^ that is, '' this walk is," cj/-c. 

Adjective pronouns must agree, in number ^w^h 
their substantives, as, '* This book, these books : 
that sort, those sorts ^ another road, other rouds>^^ 
Grammar, p. 141. Key, p. 30. 

These kind of indulgences soften and injure %h^ 
mind. G 2 



63 E^£ltCIS£9. (RuU d. 

Instead of improving yourselves, you have been 
playing this two hours* 

Those sort of favours did real injury, under the 
appearance of kindness* 

The chasm made by the earthquake was twenty 
foot broad, and one hundred fathom in depth. 

How many a sorrow should we avoid, if we were 
liot industrious to make them! 

He saw one or more persons enter the garden* 

$7ie examples which follvw, are sidled to the nettM 
and observations under rvle viiu 

Grammar, p. 142. Key, p. 31 

I. AP^ECTIViE iPRONOtJNS.* 

1 . Charles was extravagant, and by this mean be- 
came poor and despicable. 

It was by that ungenelDus mean that he obtained 
his ehd. 

Industry is the mean of obtaining competency. 

Though a promising measure, it is a mean which 
I cannot adopt. 

This person embraced every opportunity to dia* 
play his talents ; and by these means rendered him^ 
s«lf ridiculous* 

Joseph was industrious, frugal, and discreet ; and 
by this means obtained property and reputation. 

2. Religion raises men abo\ne themselves ; ittell^ 
gion sinks them beneath the brutes 5 that, binds 
them down to a poor pitiable speck of perishable 
earth ; this, opens for them a prospect to the skies^ 

More ram falls in the first two summer months, 
than in the first two winter ones : but it makes a 
much greater show upon the earth in those than in 
these ; because there is a much slower evaporation 

T , I , II.. ■ - im 

^ See the Grammar, Rule viii of Syntax. 



ftfl/« S.) SYNTAX. fi3 

Rex and Tyrannus are of very different charac 
lers. The one rules his people by laws to which 
they consent ; the other, by his absolute will and 
power: this is called freedom, that, tyranny 

3* Each of them, in their turn, receive the bene 
ffts to which they are entitled. 

My counsel to each of you is, that you should 
make it your endeavour to come to a friendly agree 
laent. 

By discussing what relates to each particular, in 
their order, we shall better understand the subject. 

Every person, whatever be their station, are bowid 
t)y the duties of morality and religion. 

Every leaf, every twig, every drop of water, teem 
mth life. 

. Every man's heart and temper is prodi^ctive of 
much inward joy or bitterness. 

Whatever he undertakes, either his pride or his 
folly disgust us. 

Every man and every woman were numbered. 

Neither of those men seem to have any idea, that 
iheir opinions may be ill-founded. 

When benignity and gentlenc^ss reign within, we 
;are always least in hazard from without : every per- 
i«on, and every occurrence, are beheld in the most 
favourable ligfit. 

On either side of the river was there ihe tree of 
«fe. 

n. ADJECTIVES* 

4. She reads proper, writes very neat, and com- 
poses accurate. 

He was extreme prodigal, and his property is now 
l&eaf exhausted. 

They generally succeeded ; for they lived coi> 
fermable to the rules of prudence-. 

We may reason vevv c4ear and cx^cceding stfonci 



64 EXERCISES. {Rule 8. 

without Knowing that there is such a thing as a 
syllogism. 

He had many virtues, and was exceeding beloved* 

The amputation was exceeding well performed, 
and saved the patient's life. 

He came agreeable to his promise, and conducted 
himself suitable to the occasion. 

He speaks very flue^it, reads excellent, but does 
not think very coherent. 

He behaved himself submissive, and was exceed* 
ing careful not to give offence. 

They rejected the advice, and conducted them- 
selves exceedingly indiscreetly. 

He is a person of great abilities, and exceeding 
upright : and is like to be a very useful member o< 
the community. 

The conspiracy was the easier discovered, from 
its being known to many. 

Not being fully acquainted with the subject, b€ 
could ^(^rvr. no stronger than he did. 

He was ^o deeply impressed with the subject, that 
few could speak nobler upon it. 

We may credit his testimony, for he says expres:^, 
that he saw the transaction. 

Use a litde wine for thy stomach's sake, and thine 
often infirmities. 

From these favourable beginnings, we may hope 
for a soon and })rosperous issue. 

He addressed several exhortations to thenj suita- 
bly to their circumstances. 

Conformably to their vehemence of thought, was 
their vehemence of gesture. 

We should implant in the mmds of youth, su^^h 
seeds and principles of piety and virtue, as are likely. 



Ruie 8.) SYNTAX. 66 

5. 'Tis more easier to build two chimneys than 
to maintain one. 

The tongue is like a race-horse ; wnich runs the 
fester the lesser weight it carries. 

The pleasures of the understanding are more pre- 
ferable than those of the imagination, or of sense. 

The nightingale sings : hers is the most sweetest 
voice in the grove. 

The Most Highest hath created us for his glory, 
and for our own happiness. 

The Supreme Being 'u the most wisest, and most 
powerfulest, and the most best of beings. 

6. Virtue confers the supremest dignity on man ; 
and should be his chiefest desire. 

His assertion was more true than that of his oppo- 
nent ; nay, the words of the latter w^ere most untrue. 

His work is perfect ; his brother's more perfect ; 
and his father's the most perfect of all. 

He gave the fullest and the most sincere proof of 
the truest friendship. 

7. A talent of this kind would, perhaps, prove 
the likeliest of any other to succeed. 

He is the strongest of the two, but not the wisest. 

He spoke with so much propriety, that I under- 
stood him the best of all the others, who spoke on 
the subject. 

Eve was the fairest of all her daug-hters. 

8. He spoke in a distinct enough manner to be 
heard by the whole assembly. 

Thomas is equipped with a new pair of shoes and 
a new pair of gloves : he is the servant of an old 
rich man. 

The two first in the row are cherry-trees, the two 
others are pear-trees. 



^ EXERCISES. {Rule 9« 

RULE IX. 

The itrticle a or an agrees zvith nouns m the singu* 
lar number only^ individually or collectively : asy ** a 
Christian^ an infidel, a score, a thousand.^'^ 

The definite article the may agree -with nouns in 
the singular or plural number: as , ^^ The gardens ^ 
the houses, the stars. ^^ 

The articles are often properly omitted; when 
used, they shoidd be justly applied, according to their 
distinct nature : as, " Gold is corrupting ; The sea 
%s greeji ; A lion is bold.'^^ 

Grammar, p. 151. Key, p. 35. 

The fire, the air, the earth, and the water, are 
four elements of the philosophers. 

Reason was given to a man to control his passions. 

We have within us an intelligent principle, dis- 
tinct from body and from matter. 

4 man is the noblest work of creation. 

Wisest and best men sometimes commit errors. 

Beware of drunkenness : it impairs understand- 
ing ; wastes an estate ; destroys a reputation ; con- 
sumes the body ; and renders the man of the bright- 
est parts the commrn jest of the meanest clown. 

He is a much bi^tter writer than a reader. 

The king has conferred on him the title of a duke. 

There are some evils of life, which equally affect 
prince and people. 

We must act our part with a constancy, though 
reward of our constancy be distant. 

We are placed here under a trial of our virtue. 

The virtues like his are not easily acquired. Such 
qualities honour the nature of man. 

Purity has its seat in the heart ; but extends its 
influence over so much of outward conduct, as to 
form the great and material part of a character. 

The profligate man is seldom or never found to 
he the good husband, the good father, or the bene* 
ficent neighbour. 



Huie 10.) SYNTAX. 67 

True charity is not the meteor, which occasionally 
glares ; but the luminary, which, in its orderly and 
regular course, dispenses benignant influence. 

The following sentences exemplify the notes and 
observations under rule ix. 
Grammar, p. 151, 152. Key, p. 35. 

1. He has been much censured for conducting 
himself with a little attention to his business. 

So bold a breach of order, called for little severity 
in punishing the offender. 

His error was accompanied with so little contrition 
and candid acknowledgment, that he found a few 
persons to intercede for him. 

There were so many mitigating circumstances 
attending his misconduct, particularly that of his 
open confession, that he found few friends who were 
disposed to interest themselves in his favour. 

As his misfortunes were the fruit of his own ob- 
stinacy, a few persons pitied him, 

2. The fear of shame, and desire of approbation, 
prevent many bad actions. 

In this business he was influenced by a just and 
generous principle. 

He was fired with desire of doing something, 
though he knew not yet, with distinctness, either 
end or means. 

3. At worst, I could but incur a gentle reprimand. 
At best, his gift was but a poor offering, when we 

consider his estate. 

RULE X. 

One substantive governs another ^ signifying a dif 
ferent thing, in the possessive or genitive case : aSy 
** My father^ s house ;'' *' MarCs happiness ;-' " Vir* 
lut^s rewardJ^*' 

Grammar, p. 153. Key, p. 36. 



88 EXERCISES. (Rule 10 

My ancestors virtue is not mine. 
His brothers offence will not condemn him* 
I will not destroy the city for ten sake» 
Nevertheless, Asa his heart was perfect with the 

Lord* 

A mothers tenderness and a fathers care are na 

tures gifts' for mans advantage. 

A mans manner's frequently influence his fortune 
Wisdoms }>recepts' form the good mans interest 

and happiness. 

They slew Varus, he that was mentioned before. 
They slew Varus, who was him that I mentioned 
before. 

The following examples are adapted to the notes and 
observations under rule x. 
Grammar, p. 154. Key, p. 37. 

1. It was the men's, women's, and children's lot 
to suffer great calamities. 

Peter's, John's, and Andrew's, occupation, was 
that of fishermen. 

This measure gained the king, as well as the peo- 
ple's approbation. 

Not only the counsel's, and attorney's, but the 
judge's opinion also, favoured his cause, 

'2. And he cast himself down at Jesus feet. 

Moses rod was turned into a serpent. 

For Ilerodias sake, his brother Philips wife# 

L" ye suffer for righteousness's sake, happy are ye. 

Ye should be subject for conscience's sake. 

3. They very justly condemned the prodigal's, as 
he was called, senseless and extravagant conduct. 

They implicitly obeyed the protector's, as they 
called him, imperious mandates. 

4. I bought the knives at Johnson's, the cutler's^ 
The silk w^as purchased at Brown's, the mercer^s 

and haberdasher-s. 



Rule 10.) SYNTAX. $9 

Lord Feversham the generaPs lent. 

This paiace had been the grand sultan's Maho- 
met's. 

I will not for David-s thy father's sake. 

He took refuge at the governor, the king's repr«^ 
sentaUve's. 

Whose works are these ? They are Cicero, the 
most eloquent of men's. 

5. The world's government is not left to chance 
She married my son's wife's brother. 

This is my wife's brother's partner's house. 

It was necessary to have both the physician's and 
the surgeon's advice. 

The extent of the prerogative of the king of Eng- 
land, is sufficiently ascertained. 

6. This picture of the king's does not niuch re- 
semble him. 

These pictures of the king w^ere sent to him from 
Italy. 

This estate of the corporation's is much encum- 
bered. 

That is the eldest son of the king of England's. 

7. What can be the caus-e of the parliament neg» 
kcting so important a business ? 

Much depends on this rule being observed. 

The time of William making the experiment, at 
length arrived. 

It is very probable that this assembly was called, 
to clear some doubt which the king had, about the 
kwfulness of the Hollanders their throwing off the 
monarchy of Spain, and their withdrawing entirely 
their allegiance to that crown. 

If we alter the situation of any of the words, we 
shall presently be sensible of the melody suffenng. 

Such will ever be the effect of youth associating 
with vicious companions. 

H 



fC EXERCISES. {Rule 11« 

RULE XI. 

Active verbs govern the objective case : as^ ** Truth 
ennobles her ;^^ " She comforts me;'' ^^They supporf 
us f'* ^^ Virtue rewards herfollozoers.'^^ 
Grammar, p. 159. Key, p. 38. 

They who opulence has made proud, and who 
luxury has corrupted, cannot relish the simple plea- 
sures of nature. 

You have reason to dread his wrath, which one 
day will destroy ye both. 

Who have I reason to love so much as this friend 
of my youth. 

Ye, who were dead, hath he quickened. 

Who did they entertain so freely ? 

The man who he raised from obscurity, is dead. 

Ye only have 1 known of all the families of the 
earth. 

He and they we know, but who are you ? 

She that is idle and mischievous, reprove sharply 

Who did they send to him on so important an 
errand ? 

That is the friend who you must receive cordially, 
and who you cannot esteem too highly. 

He invited my brother and I to see and examine 
his library. 

He who committed the offence, you should cor- 
rect, not I who am innocent. 

We should fear and obey the Author of our being, 
even He who has power to reward or punish us for 
ever. 

They who he had most injured, he had the great- 
est reason to love. 

The examples which follow, are stated to the notes 
and observations under rule xi. 

Grammar, p. 160. Key, p. 39. 

Though he now takes pleasure in them }ie 



Rule 11.) SYNTAX. 72 

will one day repent him of indulgences so unwar- 
rantable. 

The nearer his virtues approached him to the 
great example before him, the humbler he grew. 

It will be very difficult to agree his conduct witt 
the principles he professes. 

2. To ingratiate with some by traducing others, 
marks a base and despicable mind. 

I shall premise with two or three general obser- 
vations. 

3. If such maxims, and such practices prevail 
what has become of decency and virtue ? 

I have come according to the time proposed ; bu( 
I have fallen upon an evil hour. 

The mighty rivals are now at length agreed. 

The influence of his corrupt example was then 
entirely ceased. 

He was entered into the connexion, before the 
consequences w^ere considered. 

4.^ Weil may you be afraid ; i^ is him indeed. 

I would act the same part if I were him. or in ais 
situation. 

Search the Scriptures ; for in them ye think ya 
have eternal life : and they are them which testify 
of me. 

Be composed : it is me : you have no cause for fear. 

I cannot tell who has befriended me, unless it is 
him from Avhom I have received many benefits. 

I know not whether it were them who conducted 
the business ; but I am certain it was not him. 

* When the verb io be is understood^ it has the same case before 
and after it, as when it is expressed as, " He seems the leader of 
the party;" " He shall continue steward;" " They appointed me 
executor;""! supposed him a man of learning;" that is, " He 
seems to be the leader of the party," &ic. — N-ouns in Apposition are 
in the same case: as, " We named the man Pompey ;" "They mi^ 
term Charles a visionary, but they cannot call him a deceiver ;** 
<* Hortensius died a martyr ;" ""rte gentle Sidney lived the sbefh 
htrd's friend.'* 



1i KtEiflt;!sfe*5i (Rule 12. 

He so much resembled my brother, that, at first 
sight, I took it to be he* 

After all iheir professions, is it possible to be them ? 

It could not have been her, for she always be- 
haves discreetly. 

If it was not him, who do you imagine it to have 
been ? 

Who do you think him to be '/ 

Whom do the people say that we are ? 

5. Whatever others do, let thou and I act wisely* 

Let them and we unite to oppose this growing 
evil. 

RULE XII. 

One verb governs another that follows it^ or depends 
upon it, in the infinitive mood : as, ^^ Cease to do evil ; 
learn to do zvell ;'^ *' JVe should be prepared to render 
an account of our actions J^'^ 

The preposition to, though generally used before 
the latter verb ^ is sometimes properly omitted: a?, 
'' / heard him say it ;^' instead of'^ to say 2/.'' 
Grammar, p. 161. Key, p. 40 

It is better live on a little, than outlive a great deal. 

You ought not walk too hastily. 

I wish him not wrestle with his happiness. 

I need not to solicit him to do a kind action. 

I dare not to proceed so hastily lest I should give 
offence. 

I have seen some young persons to conduct them- 
selves very discreetly. 

The following sentences exemplify the notes and 

observations under rule xii. 

Grammar, p. 162. Key, p. 40. 

1. It is a great support to virtue, when we see a 
good mind to maintain its patience and tranquillity, 
Under injuries and affliction, and to cordially forgif^ve 
its oppfessors. 



Riile 13.) SYNTAX. 73 

It IS the difference of their condact, which makes 
us to approve the one, and to reject the other. 

We should not be like many persons, to depre- 
ciate the virtues we do not possess* 

To see young persons who are courted by health 
and pleasure, to resist all the allurements of vice 
and to steadily pursue virtue and knowledge, is 
cheering and delightful to every good mind. 

They acted with so much reserve, that some per- 
sons doubted them to be sincere. 

And the multitude wondered, when they saw iht 
lame to vv^alk, and the blind to see, 

RULE xni. 
In the use of words and phrases which, in point oj 
time, relate to each other, a due regard to that rela- 
tion should he observed. Instead of saying, '' TAe 
Lord hath given, and the Lord hath taken away ;'' we 
should say '' The Lord gave, and the Lord hath takeji 
azoay^^^ Instead of " I remember the family more 
than twenty years ;" it should be, " Ihav-e remember- 
td the family more than twenty years.'^^ 
Grammar, p. 163. Key, p. 41. 

The next new yearns day I shall be at school three 
Years. 

And he that was dead, sat up, and began to speak* 

I should be obliged to him, if he will gratify me 
in that particular. 

And the multitude wondered, when they saw the 
dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame 
walk, and the blind seeing. 

I have compassion on the multitude, because they 
continue with me now three days. 

In the treasury belonging to the Cathedral in this 
city, is preserved with the greatest veneration, for 
upwards of six hundred years, a disi! which they 
'|Tretcnd to be m.ade of emerald. 

The cxnirt of Rome gladly laid hold on all the cp- 
H2 



^4 EXEitcisES* (Rule li 

portunities, which the imprudence, weakness, orne 

cessities of princes, afford it, to extend its authority. 

Fierce as he mov'd his silver shafts resound. 

They maintained that scripture conclusion, that 
all mankind rise from one head. 

John will earn his wages, when his service if 
completed. 

Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life* 

Be that as it will, he cannot justify his conduct. 

I liave been at London a year, and seen the king 
last summer. 

After we visited London, we returned, content 
and thankful, to our retired and peaceful habitation. 

The following examples are adapted to the notes and 
observations under rule xiii. 

Grammar, p, 164. Key, p. 42. 

1. I purpose to go to London in a few months^ 
^nd after I shall finish my business there, to proceed 
to America. 

These prosecutions of William seem to be the 
most iniquitous measures pursued by the court dur- 
ing the time that the use of parliaments was sus- 
pended* 

From the little conversation I had w^ith him, he 
appeared to have been a man of letters. 

I always ir.tended to have rewarded my son, ac 
cording to his merit. 

It would, on t-eflection, have given me great satis- 
faction, to relieve him from that distressed situation. 

It required so much care, that I thought I should 
have lost it before I reached home. 

We have done no moi^ than it was our duty to 
nave done. 

He would have assisted one of his friends, if he 
'could do it without injuring the other; but as that 
'could not have been done, he avoided all intei- 
ference. 



Huh 14.) SYNTAJI* H 

Must it not be expected, that he would have de* 
fended an authority, which had been so long exer- 
:ised without controversy ? 

These enemies of Christianity were confoundedj 
whilst they were expecting to have found an oppor- 
tunity to have betrayed its Author* 

His sea sickness w^as so great, that 1 oft^n feared 
he would have died before our alrival. 

If these persons had intended to deceive, they 
fv'ould have taken care to have avoided, what would 
expose them to the objections of their opponents. 

It was a pleasure to have received his approba- 
tion of my labours; for which I cordially thanked 
him. 

It would have afforded me stiil greater pleasure, 
to receive his approbation at an earlier period : but 
to receive it at all, reflected credit upon me. 

To be censured by him, would soon have proved 
an insuperable discouragement. 

Him portionM maids, apprentic'd orphans blest. 
The young who labour, and the old who rest. 

The doctor, in his lecture, said, that fever always 
produced thirst. 

RULE XIV. 

Participles have the same government as the verbs 
"havefi'Om which they are derived: as, ^^ I am weary 
toith hearing ^'^'^ " She is instructing w.s ;" '' T%e 
tidor IS admonishing Charles^^^^ 

Grammar, p. 16*7. Key, p. 44. 

Esteeming theirselves wise, they became fools. 
Suspecting not only ye, but they also, I was stu- 
dious to avoid all intercourse. 



* Though the* pai-ticiple is not a part ofspeech distinct from (ti« 
%'^rb, yet as it forins a particular arid striking part of tlie verb, and 
'has some rules and o])servatioiis wriicli are peculiar to it, we thtn^t! 
'^ etititled to a separatej distinctive consideration. 



^ EXERCISES, {Rlttt !4 

I coalcl ri'" avoid considering, In some degree, 
they as x^neniies to me ; and he as a suspicious 
friend. 

From having exposed himself too freely in dif 
ferent climates, he entirely lost his health* 

The examples which follow, are suited to thenottt 

and observations under rule xi v. 

Grammar, p. 167. Key, p. 45. 

i. By observing of truth, you will commanJ 
esteem, as well as secure peace. 

He prepared them for this event, by the sending 
to them proper information. 

A person may be great or rich by chance ; but 
cannot be wise or good, Avithout the taking pain« 
for it. 

Nothing could havemade her so unhappy, as the 
marrying a man who possessed such principles. 

The changing times and seasons, the removing 
ami setting up kings, belong to Providence alone. 

The middle station of life seems to be the most 
advantageously situated for gaining of wisdom. 
Poverty turns our thoughts too much upon the sup- 
plying our wants ; and riches upon the enjoying 
our superfluities. 

Pliny, speaking of Cato the Censor's disapprov 
ifig the Grecian orators, expressed himself thusr 

Propriety of pronunciation is the giving to everj 
word that sound, which the most polite usage of the 
language appropriates to it. 

The not attending to this rule, is the cause of a 
very common error. 

This was in fact a converting the deposite to hi^ 
own use. 

2. There will be no danger of their spoiling 
-their faces, or of their gaining converts. 

For his avoiding that precipice, he is indebted 
to his friend's care. 



RnU 1 4.) SYNTAX W 

It was from cur misunderstanding the directiona, 
that we lost our way. 

In tracing of his history, we discover h'ttle that is 
worthy of imitation. 

By reading of books written by the best authors, 
his mind became highly improved. 

3. By too eager pursuit, he run a great risk of 
being disappointed. 

He had not long enjoyed repose, before he begun 
to be weary of having nothing to do. 

He was greatly heated, and drunk with avidity. 

Though his conduct was, m some respects, ex- 
ceptionable, yet he dared not commit so great an of- 
fence, as that which was proposed to him. 

A second deluge learning thus o'er-run : 

And the monks finish'd what the Goths begun. 

If some events had not fell out very unexpected- 
ly, I should have been present. 

He would have went with us, had he been invited. 

He returned the goods which he had stole, and 
made all the reparation in his power. 

They have chose the part of honour and virtue. 

His vices have weakened his mind, and broke his 
health. 

He had mistook his true interest, and found him- 
self forsook by his fonner adherents. 

^he bread that has been eat is soon forgot. 

No contentions have arose amongst them since 
iheir reconciliation. 

The cloth had no seam, but was wove through^ 
out« 

The French language is spoke in every state in 
Kuropc, 

His resolution was too strong to be shook by 
slight opposition. 



78 EXERCISES. {Rule li.> 

He was not much restrained afterwards, having 
took improper liberties at first. 

He has not yet wore off the rough manners, which 
he brought with him. 

You who have forsook your friends, are entitled 
to no confidence. 

They who have bore a part m the labour, shall 
share the rewards. 

When the rules have been wantonly broke 5 there 
can be no plea for favour. 

He writes as the best authors would have wrote, 
had they writ on the same subject. 

He heaptup great riches, but past his time mise« 
rably. 

He talkt and stampt with such vehemence thai 
he was suspected to be insane. 

RULE XV. 

Adverbs^ though they have no government of case 
tense^ c^c. require an appropriate situation in tht sen- 
tence, viz, for the most part before adjectives, aftej 
verbs active or neuter, and frequently between the 
auxiliary and the verb y as, *' He made a very sens> 
ble discourse ; he spoke unaffectedly and forcibly, and 
was attentively heard by the lohole assembly.''''^ 

Grammar, p. 169. Key, p. Ati. 

He was pleasing not often, because he was vam. 

William nobly acted, though he was unsuccessful. 

We may happily live though our possessions are 
small. 

From whence we may date likewise the period o( 
this event. 

It cannot be impertinent or ridiculous therefore tc 
remonstrate. 

He offered an apology, which being not admitted 
ae became submissive. 

These things should be never separated. 



Rule 15.) svntaX. 7^ 

Unless he have more government of himself, he 
arill be always discontented. 

Never sovereign was so much beloved by tne 
people. 

He was determined to invite oack the king, and 
to call together his friends. 

So well educated a boy gives great hopes to his 
friends. 

Not only he found her employed, but pleased 
and tranquil also. 

We always should prefer our duty to our pleasure. 

It is impossible continually to be at work. 

The heavenly bodies are in motion perpetually. 

Having no^known, or having not considered, the 
measures proposed, he failed of success. 

My opinion was-given on rather a cursory perusal 
of the book. 

It is too common with mankind, to be engrossed, 
and overcome totally, by present events. 

When the Romans were pressed with a foreign 
enemy, the w^omen contributed all their rings and 
jewels voluntarily, to assist tlxe^government. 

The following sentences exemplify the notes and 
ohserxations under rule xv. 

Grammar, p. 171. Key, p. 49. 

1. They could not persuade him, though they 
were never so eloquent. 

If some persons' opportunities w^ere never so fa- 
vourable, they w^ould be too indolent to improve 
them. 

2. He drew up a petition, where he too freely re- 
presented his own merits. 

His follies had reduced him to a situation where 
he had much to fear, and nothing to hope. 

It is reported that the prince will come here to- 
' morrow. 

George is active \ he walked there in less than as 
feour. 



80 EXERCISES. (JRu/c 16 

iVhere are you all going in such haste ? 

Whither have they been since they left the city ? 

3. Charles left the seminary too early, since when 
he has made very little iniprovement, c 

.Nothing is better v^orth the while of young per- 
BOns, than the acquisition of knowledge and virtue. 

RULE XVI. 

Thu'O negatives^ in English, destroy one another^ of 
are equivalent to an affirmative : as^ " Jsl'or did they 
not perceive him f'^ that isy " they did perceive himJ^* 
" His language, though inelegant^ is not ungramma- 
ileal ;'^^ that is, '' it is grammatical ^ 
Grammar, p. 172. Key, p, Sa 

Neither riches nor honours, nor no such perish- 
ing goods, can satisfy the desires of an immortal 
spirit. 

Be honest, nor take no shape nor semblance of 
disguise. 

We need not, nor do not, confine his operations 
to narrow limits. 

I am resolved not to comply with the proposal, 
neither at present, nor at any other time. 

There cannot be nothing more insignificant than 
vanity. 

Nothing never affected her so much as this mis- 
conduct of her child. 

Do not interrupt me yourselves, nor let no one 
disturb my retirement. 

These people do not judge wisely, nor take no 
proper measures to effect their purpose. 

The measure is so exceptionable, that we cannot 
by no means permit it. 

I have received no information on the subject 
neither from him nor from his friend. 

Precept nor discipline is not so forcible as exani- 
pie. 



The king nc^ the queen was not at aU dcceivd 
m tlie business 

RULE XVIf. 

Prepositions govern the ohjective case r as, '* i 
have heard a good character of her ;" ^'From him that 
is needy^ turn not away ;'' ** ^ i^ord to the wise ii 
svjicient for them^^^ " We mmf be good and happy 
without riches. "^^ 

Grammar, p. 172. Key, p. 50. 

We are all accountable creatures, each for hisself. 

They willingly, and of theirselves, endeavoured 
lo make up the difference. 

He laid the suspicion upon somebody, I know not 
wrho, in the company. 

I hope it is not I who he is displeased with. 

To poor we there is not much hope remaining. 

Does that boy know who he speaks to? Who 
does he offer such language to ? 

It was not he that they were so angry with. 

What concord can subsist between those who 
commit crimes, and they who abhor them ? 

The person who I travelled with, has sold the 
Uorse which he rode on during our journey. 

It is not I he is engaged with. 

Who did he receive that intelligence from? 

The following examples are adapted to the notes ana 

observations under rule xvii. 

Grammar, p. 173. Key, p. 51. 

1. To have no one whom we heartily wish well 
Of and whom we are warmly concerned for, is a 
leplorable state. 

He is a friend whom I am highly indebted to. 

2. On these occasions, the pronoun is governed 
)y, and consequently agrees with, the precedirg 
vord. I 



82 EXERCISES. (Rule 17. 

They were refused entrance into, and forciUy 
driven from, the house. 

3. We are often disappointed of thirgs, which 
before possession, promised much enjoyment. 

I have frequently desired their company^ bul 
have always hitherto been disappointed in that plea- 
sure. 

4. She finds a difficulty of fixing her mind. 
Her sobriety is no dei-ogation to her understand 



mg. 



There was no water, and he died for thirst. 

We can fully confide on none but the truly gooJ» 

I have no occasion of his services. 

Many have profited from good advice. 

Many ridiculous practices have been brought in 
vogue. 

The error was occasioned by compliance to ear 
nest entreaty. 

This is a principle in unison to our naturer 

We should entertain no prejudices to simple and 
fustic persons. 

They are at })resent resolved of doing their duty. 

That boy is known under the name of the Idler. 

Though conformable widi custom, it is not war- 
rantable. 

This remark is founded in truth. 

His parents think on him, and his improvements, 
with pleasure and hope. 

His excuse was admitted of by his master.. 

What we^^t ye out for to see ? 

There aj. .^ars to have been a million men brought 
into the field. 

His present was accepted of by his friends. 

More than a thousand of men were destroyed. 

It is my request, that he will be partic^ilar in 
speaking to the following points. 

The Saxons reduced the greater part of Britaiti 
to tlieir own power. 



RWe 18.) SYNTAX. SA 

He lives opposite the Royal Exchange. 

Their house is situated to the north-east side bt 
the road. 

The performance was approved of by all who ui- 
derstood it. 

He was accused with having acted unfairly. 

She has an abhorrence to all deceitful conduct. 

They were some distance from home, when the 
accident happened. 

His deportment was adapted for conciliating re- 
gard. 

My father wriles me very frequently. 

Their conduct was agreeable with their profession. 

We went leisurely above stairs, and came hastily 
below. We shall write up stairs this forenoon, and 
down stairs in the afternoon. 

The politeness of the world has the same resem- 
blance with benevolence, that the shadow has with 
tne substance. 

He had a taste of such studies, and pursued diem 
earnestly. 

When we have had a true taste for the pleasures 
of virtue, we can have no relish of those of vice. 

How happy is it to know how to live at times by 
one's self, to leave one^s self in regret, to find one's 
self again with pleasure ! The world is then less 
necessary for us. 

Civility makes it way among every kind of per 
sons. 

5. I have been to London, alter having resided a 
year at France ; and I now live in Islington. 

They have just landed in Hull, and are going for 
Liverpool They intend to reside some time al 
Ireland, i 

SITLE XVITI. 

Conjunctions connect the same moods and tenses of 
verbs^ and case^ of nouns and prcnouns : as, " Can^ 



84 EXERCISES* (Ruie 18 

douf is to be approved and practised ;'^^ ** If thou sin 
"Certiy desiie, and earnestly pursue virtue^ she vaiU 
assuredly be found by ihee^ and prove a rich reward ^"^^ 
** The master taught her and me to ^rite ;'' *'jfi/c and 
ike were school-fellozifs*^^ 

Grammar, p. 176. fCejr, p. ^. 

Professing regard, and to act differently , discover 
a base mind. 

Did he not tell me his fauJt, and entreated me to 
forgive him ? 

%ly brother and him are toieraMe grammamns* 

If he understood the subject, and attends to itia* 
dustriously , he can scarcely fail of success- 

You and us enjoy many privileges* 

If a man have a hundred sheep, and one <rftbeH) 
is gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and mi^, 
and goeth in^^to the mountains, and seelceth that which 
IS gone astray ? 

She and him a^^ very ^nhappHy coRFvected. 

To be moderate in our views, and proceeding 
temperately in the pursuit of them, is the best way 
to enstire success. 

Between him and I th^e is son^e disparity ol 
years; but none between him and she. 

By forming themselves on fantastic models, and 
ready to vie with one anotherin the reigning follies, 
the young begin with being ridiculous, and end with 
being vicious and immoral. 

Tlu following sentences exemplify the note^ and 

observations under rule xvin* 

Grammar, p. 177. Key, p. fe4. 

1 . We have met with many disappointments ; and 
if life continue, shall probably meet with many more- 
Rank may confer influence., but will not neces3a* 
•riiy produce virtue. 



Rule 19.) SYNTAX. Hi 

He does not want courage, but is defective id 

sensibility. 

These people have indeed acquired great riches, 
but do not command esteem. 

Our seasons of improvement is short ; and, whe- 
ther used or not, will soon pass away. 

He might have been happy, and is now fully 
convinced of it. 

Learning strengthens the mind ; and, if properly 
applied, will improve our morals too. 

RULE xi5r. 

Some conjunciions require the indicative^ some the 
subjunctive mood, after them. It is a general rule, 
ihat when something contingent or douhtfid is implied^ 
the subjunctive ought to be used: as^ ^^ If I were 
io write, he would not regard ii ;" ** He will not be 
pardoned^ unless he repent.*^ 

Co7ijunctions thai are of a positive and absolute 
nature, require the indicative mood. '• As virtue ad- 
vances ^ so vice recedes ;^^ '* He is he<tlthy, because he 
is temperate.'^^ 

Gram mar, p. 1 7S. Key, p. 54. 

If he acquires riches, they will corrupt his mind, 
And be useless to others. 

Though he urges me yet more earnestly, I shall 
Bot comply, unless he advances more forcible rea- 
sons. 

I shall walk in the fields to-day unless it rains. 

As the governess were present, the children be- 
haved properly. 

She disapproved the measure, because it were 
very improper. 

Though he be high, he hath respect to the lowly. 

Though he were her friend, he did not attem[4 
to justify her conduct. 

Whether he improve or not, I cdtnmjt deterw&f^f, 
12 



1^ EXERCISES. \Riite t9m 

Though the fact be extraordinary, h certainly did 
tappen. 

Remember what thou wert, and be humble. 

. that his heart was tender, and susceptible td 
the woes of others* 

Shall then this verse to future age pretend, 
Thou wert mj guide, philosopher, and friend 1 

i%e examples which follow are suited to ihe notes and 
observations under rule xix. 

Grammar, p. 179. Key, p. 55. 

1. Despise not any condition, lest it happens to 
^be your own. 

Let him that is sanguine, take heed !est he mis- 
carries. 

Take care that thou breakest not any of the es- 
'tablished rules. 

If he ^es but intimate his desire, it will be suf 
tficient to produce obedience. 

At the time of his return, if he is but expert in 
the business, he will find employment. 

If he do but speak to display his abilities, he is 
unworthy of atteiuion. 

If he be but in health, I am content. 

If be does promise, he will certainly perform. 

Though he do praise her, it is only for her 
beauty. 

If thou dost not forgive, perhaps thou wilt not be 
forgiven. ^ ^ 

If l!iou do sincerely believe the truths of religion 
act accordingly. 

2. His confused behaviour made it reasonable to 

suppose that he were guilty. 

IIo is so conscious of deserving the rebuke, that 
he dare not make any reply. 

Hi£ apology was so plausible, that many befriend" 
'ed hin^., and thought he wcre'innor^nt. 



Ride 19.) SYNTAlc. B7 

3-. I'f one man prefer a life of industry, it is be- 
cause be has an idea of comfort in wealth; if ano- 
ther prefers a life of gaiety, it is from a like idea 
concerning pleasure. 

No one engages in that business, unless he aim at 
reputation, or hopes for some singular advantage. 

Though the design be laudable, and is favourable 
to our interest, it will involve much anxiety and 
labour^ 

4. Unless he learns faster, he will be no scholar. 
Though he falls, he shall not be utterly cast down. 
On condition that be comes, I will consent to 

stay. 

However that afiair terminates, my conduct will 
be unimpeachable. 

If virtue rewards us not so soon as we desire, the 
payment will be made with interest. 

Till repentance composes his mind, he will be a 
stranger to peace. 

Whether he confesses, or not, the truth will cer 
tainiy be discovered. 

If thou censurest uncharitably, thou w^iit be en 
titled to no favour. 

Though, at times, the ascent to the temple of 
virtue, appears steepand craggy, be not discouraged. 
■Persevere until thou gainest the summit: there, all 
is order, beauty, and pleasure. 

If Charlotte desire to gain esteem and love, she 
(?oes not employ the proper means. 

Unless the accountant deceive me, my estate h 
considerably improved. 

Though self-government produce some uneasi- 
ness. It is light when compared with the pain of vi- 
CJous indulgence. 

Whether he thinks as he speaks, time will d]S< 
cover. 

If thou censure uncharitably, thou deservest n^- 
fsvour. 



^8 EXERCISER, {Rule V3. 

Though virtue appear severe, she is truly amiable* 
Though success be very doubtful, it is propel that 
lie endeavours to succe-ed. 

5. If thou have promised, be faithful to thy en- 
gagement. 

Though he have proved his right to submission, 
he is too g'enerous to exact it. 

Unless he have improved, he is unfit for the office. 

6. If thou had succeeded, perhaps thou wouldst 
not be the happier for it. 

Unless thou shall see th^ propriety of the measure, 
we shall not desire thy support. 

Though thou will not acknowledge, thou canst 
tiot deny the fact. 

7. If thou gave liberally, thou wilt receive a libe- 
ral reward. 

Though thou did injure him, ne harbours no re* 
sentment. 

It would be well, if the report was only the mis* 
representation of her enemies. 

Was he ever so great and opulent, this conduct 
would debase him. 

Was I to enumerate all her virtues, it would look 
like flattery. 

Though I was perfect, yet would I not presume. 

8. If thou may share in his labours, be thankful, 
and do it cheerfully. 

Unless thou can fairly support the cause, give it 
up honourably. 

Though thou might have foreseen the danger, 
ihou couldst not have avoided it. 

If thou could convince him, he would not act ac- 
cordingly. 

If thou would improve in knowledge, be diligent. 

Unless thou should make a timely retreat, tb^ 
3iSii;n2:<'r y/i!! be unavoidable. 



I iiule 1^.) SYNTAX. 89 

I Iiave laboured and wearied myself, that thou 
may be at ease. 

He enlarged on those o«»ngers, that thou should 
avoid them. 

9. Neither the cold or the . "vid, but characters 
uniformly warm, are formed foi riendship. 

They are both praise- worthy, and one is equally 
deserving as the other. 

He is not as diligent and learned as his brother. 

1 wy\\ present it lo him myself, or direct it to be 
given to him. 

Neither despise or oppose what thou dost not un- 
derstand. 

The house is not as commodious as we expected 
it woiild be. 

1 must, however, be so candid to own 1 have been 
mistaken. 

There was somefhing so amiable, and yet so 

i)iercing in his look, as affected me at once wilh 
ove and ten'OT. 

■ *' I gain'fl a son ; 

And^Buch a son, as all men hail'd me happy." 

The dog in the manger would net eat the hay 
bunself, nor suffer the ox to eat it. 

As far as tl am able to judge, the book is well 
written. 

We ^hoiJld fatthfuHy perform the trust committed 
tO'U6, or ingenuously relinquish the charge. 

lie is not as eminent, and as much esteemed as ne 
th'nks himseJf to be. 

The work is a dull performance; and is neither 
capable of pleasing the understanding, or the .ma- 
gination. 

There is no coivdition so secure, as cannot ladmit 
bf^hati^e. 

This is an event, which nobody presumes upon, 
or is so sanguine^lo hope for. 



90; EXERCISES. {RtiieiO 

We are generally pleased with any little accom* 
plishments ofbodyormind. 

10. Be ready to succour such persons who need 
thy assistance. 

The matter was no sooner proposed, but he pri 
vately withdrew to consider it. 

He has too much sense and prudence than to be- 
come a dupe to such artifices. 

It is not sufficient that our conduct, as far as it 
respects others, appears to be unexceptionable. 

The resolution was not the less fixed, that the se- 
cret was yet communicated to very few. 

He opposed the most remarkable conniptions oi 
the church of Rome, so as that his doctrines were 
embraced by great numbers. 

He gained nothing further by his speech, but only 
to be commended for his eloquence. 

He has little more of the scholar besides the name. 

He has little of the scholar than the name. 

They had no sooner risen, but they applied them 
selves to their studies. 

From no other institution, besides the admirable 
one of juries, could so great a benefit be expected. 

Those savage people seemed to have no other 
element but war. 

Such men that act treacherously ought to be 
avoided. 

Germany ran the same risk as Italy had done. 

No errors are so trivial, but they deserve to be 
corrected. 

RULE XX. 

When the qualities of different things are compared 
the latter noun or pronoun is not governed hy the con* 
junction than Qr as, but agrees zuith the terb^ or it 
governed by the verb or the preposition^ expressed of 



Rule 20.) SYNTAX. 91 

understood : as, '* Thou art wiser than /;'' that is, 
^Hhan I amJ^* '' They loved him more than me/" 
that is, " more than they loved me.'' '' The sentiment 
IS zoell expressed by Plato, but much better by SolO' 
man than him ;^'^ that is, '' than by him*^^ 
Grammar, p. 187. Key, p. 60. 

In some respects, we have had as many advan- 
tages as them ; but in the article of a good library 
they have had a greater privilege than us. 

The undertaking was much better executed by his 
brother than he. 

They are much greater gainers than me by this 
unexpected event. 

They know how to write as well as him ; but he 
is a much better grammarian then them. 

Though she is not so learned as him, she is as 
much beloved and respected. 

These people, though they possess more shining 
qualities, are not so proud as him, nor so vain as her 

The following examples are adapted to the notes and 
observations under rule xx. 

Grammar, p. 188. Key, p. 60. 

1. Who betrayed her companion ? Not me. 

Who revealed the secrets he ought to have con- 
cealed ? Not him. 

Who related falsehoods to screen herself, and to 
bring an odium upon others ? Not me ; it was her. 

There is but one in fault, and that is me. 

Whether he will be learned or no, must depend 
on his application. 

Charles XII. of Sweden, than who a more cou- 
rageous person never lived, appears to have beeia 
destitute of the tender sensibilities of nature. 

Salmasius (a more learned man than him has 
' seldom appeared) was not happy at the close of life* 



^2 EXERCISES. (Ruce !^t 

RULE XXW 

To avoid disagreeable repetitions^ and to exprtss 
our ideas in fexo rvords, an ellipsis, or omission of 
8ome words ^ is frequently admitted. 

Grammar, p. 1S8. Key, p. 61. 

I gladly shunned who gladly fled from me* 

And this is it men mean by distributive justice, 
and is property termed equity. 

His honour, interest, religion, were all embarked 
m this undertaking. 

When so good a man as Soerates fell a victim to 
the madness of the people, truth, virtue, religion, 
fell with him. 

The fear of death, nor hope of life, could make 
him submit to a dishonest action. 

An elegant house and furniture were, by this 
everit, irrecoverably lost to the owner. 

7%e examples which follow^ are suited to the notes and 

observations under rule xxi. 

Gramnjar, p. 189. Key, p. 62. 

1. These rules are addressed to none but the in- 
telligent and the attentive. 

The gay and the pleasing are, sometimes, the 
most insid*ious, and the most dangerous companions. 

Old age will prove a joyless and a dreary season, 
if we arrive at it with an unimproved, or with a 
corrupted mind. 

The more I see of his conduct, I like him better. 

It is not only the duty, but interest of young per- 
sons to be studious and diligent. 

2. These counsels were the dictates of virtue, an<i 
the dictates of true honour. 

Avarice and cunning may acquire an estate; but 
avarice and cunning cannot gain friends. 

A taste for useful knowledge, will provide for us 
a great and noble entertainment, when others leave 
as. 



HuU 21.) SYNTAX. lA 

Without firmness, nothing that is great can be ua^ 
Jertaken ; that is difficult or hazardous, can be ac« 
€Oinplished. 

The anxious man is the votary of riches ; the neg- 
dgent, of pleasure. 

3. His crimes had brought him into extreme dis« 
tress, and extreme perplexity. 

He has an affectionate brother, and an affectior*- 
ate sister, and they live in great harmony. 

We must guard against too great severity, and 
jfecility of manners. 

We should often recollect what the wisest men 
nave said and written, concerning human happiness 
and vanity. 

That species of commerce will produce great gain 
or loss. 

Many days, and even weeks, pass away unim- 
proved. 

This wonderful action struck the beholders with 
exceeding astonishment. 

The people of this country possess a healthy cli- 
raate and soil. 

They enjoy also a free constitution and laws. 

4. His reputation and his estate were both lost 
by gaming. 

This intelligence not only excited our hopes, but 
fears too. 

His conduct is not scandalous ; and that is the 
best can be said of it. 

This was the person whom calumny had greatly 
abused, and sustained the injustice with singular 
patience. 

He discovered some qualities in the youth, of ^ 
disagreeable nature, and to him were wholly unac-^ 
countable. 

The captain had several men died in his shipj ^ 
the scurvy. 

K 



94 EXERCISES. {Rule 21 

He is not only sensible and learned, but is reli- 
gious too. 

The Chinese language contains an immense 
number of words; and who would learn them must 
possess a great memory. 

By presumption and b}'- vanity, we provoke 
enmity, and we incur contempt. 

In the circumstances I was at that time, my 
troubles pressed heavily upon me. 

He has destroyed his constitution, by the very 
same errors that so many have been destroyed. 

5. He is temperate, he is disinterested, he is be- 
nevolent ; he is an ornament to his family, and a 
credit to his profession. 

Genuine virtue supposes our benevolence to be 
strengthened, and to be confirmed bj^ principle. 

Perseverance in laudable pursuits, will reward 
all our toils, and will produce effects beyond our 
calculation. 

It is happy for us, when we can calmly and deli- 
berately look back on the past, and can quietly 
anticipate the future. 

The sacrifices of virtue will not only be reward- 
ed hereafter, but recompensed even in thij life. 

All those possessed of any ofiice, resigned tiieir 
former commission. 

If young persons were determined to conduct 
themselves by the rules of virtue, not only would 
they escape innumerable dangers, but command 
respect from the licentious themselves. 

Charles was a man of learning, knowledge, and 
Denevolence ; and, what is still more, a true 
Christian. 

6. The temper of him who is always in the bustle 
j( the world, will be often ruffled, and be often 
disturbed. 

We often commend imprudently as well as 
censure im.prudently. 



Rule 21.) SYNTAX. 91 

How a seed grows up into a tree, and the mind 
acts upon the body, are mysteries which we cannot 
explain. 

Verily, there is a reward for the righteous ! There 
IS a God that judgeth in the earth. 

7. Changes are almost continually taking place 
\fi, men and in manners, in opinions and in customs, 
in private fortunes and public conduct* 

Averse either to contradict or blam.e, the too 
complaisant man goes along v/ith the manners that 
prevail. 

By this habitual indelicacy, the virgins smiled at 
what they blushed before. 

They are now reconciled to what they coula not 
formerly be prompted, by any considerations. 

Censure is the tax which a man nays the public for 
being eminent. 

Reflect on the state of human life, and tlie society 
of men, as mixed with good and with evil. 

8. In all stations and conditions, the important 
relations take place, of masters and servants, and 
husbands and wives, and parents and children, and 
brothers and friends, and citizens and subjects. 

Destitute of principle, he regarded neither his 
family, nor his friends, nor his reputation. 

Religious persons are often unjustly represented 
as persons of romantic character, visionary notions, 
unacquainted with the world, unfit to live in it. 

No rank, station, dignity of birth, possessions, 
exempt men from contributing their share to public 
utility. 

9. Oh my father! Oh my friend! how great has 
been my ingratitude ! 

Oh piety ! virtue ! how insensible have I been to 
.your charms I t 

iO. That is a property most men have, or at ^f'SM 
aaav 3ttam, 



^ fexfiRCisfes. (Rule 22* 

Why do ye that^ which is not lawful to do on the 
labbath days? 

The showbread v/hich is not lawful to eat, but 
for the priests alone. 

Most, if hot all the royal family, had quitted the 
place. 

By these happy labours^ they who sow and reap^ 
will rejoice together. 

RULE XXII. 

M! the parts of a sentence should correspond to 
each other : a regular and dependent coristruction 
throughout should be carefully preserved. 
Grammar, p. 192. Key, p. 67. 

Several alterations and additions have been 
made to the work* 

The first proposal was essentially different, and 
inferior to the second. 

He is more bold and active, but not so wise and 
studious as his companion. 

Thou hearest the sound of the wind, but thou 
canst not tell >vhence it cometh, and whither it 
goeth. 

Neithfjr has he, nor any other persons, suspected 
so much dissimulation. 

The court of France, or England, was to have 
been the umpire. 

In the reign of Henry II. all foreign commodi- 
ties vrcre plenty in England. 

There is no talent so useful towards success in 
business, or which puts men more out of the reach 
of accidents, than that quality generally possessed 
by persons of cool temper, and is^, in common lan- 
giiage, called discretion. 

The first project was to shorten discourse, by 
tuttiiig polysyllables into 4ne. 

1 shall do all I can, to persuade others to t&k« 
^ -A^Tre meastires for their ^ij're which 1 have» 



Ruie 22,) SYNTAX. i^j 

The greatest masters of critical learning dilffei 
among one another, 

JMicaiah said, if thou certainly return in peace 
then hath not the Lord spoken by me. 

I do not suppose, that we Britons want a genius, 
more than the rest of our neighbours. 

The deaf man, w^iose ears were opened, and his 
tDngue loosened, doubtless glorified the great Phy- 
sician. 

Groves, fields, and meadows, are at any season 
of the year, pleasant to look upon ; but never so 
much as in the opening of the spring. 

The miiiiitude rebuked them, because they 
sh-ould hold their -peace. 

The intentions of some of these philosophers, nay, 
n{ many, miight and probably were good. 

It is an unanswerable argument of a very refined 
age, the wonderful civilities that have passed be- 
tv/ecn the nation of authors, and that of readers. 

It was an unsuccessful undertaking; which, al- 
though it has failed, is no objection at all to an en- 
terprise so w^el! concerted. 

The reward is his due, and it has already, or will 
hereafter, be given to him. 

By intercourse with wise and experienced per- 
sons, wlio know the world, we may improve ana 
rub otf the rust of a private and retired education. 

Sincerity is as valuable, and even more valuable, 
than knowledgi). 

No person was ever so perplexed, or sustained 
the mortifications, as he has done to-day. 

The Romans gave, not only the freedom of the 
city, but capacity for employments, to several 
towns in Gaul, ijpain, and Germany. 

Such writers have no other standard on which to 
form themselves, except what chances to be fashion- 
able and populai. 

Whatever we do secretly, shall be displayed 
and heard in the clearest light. 



1^8 sVntax. {Pronis€uou$ 

fo the happiness of possessing a person of sucL 
iincommon merit, Boethiiis soon had the satisfaction 
t)f obtaining the highest honour his country could 
bestow. 

CHAP. II. 

Coniaining instances of false Syntax^ promiscuotul^ 

disposed. 

See the Key, p. 69. 

SECT. I. 

Though great has been his disobedience and his 
folly, yet if he sincerely acknowledges his miscon 
due*; he will be forgiven. 

On these causes depend all the happiness or mis- 
ery, which exist among men. 

The property of James, I mean his books and 
furniture, were wholly destroyed 

Tliis prodigy of learning, this scholar, critic, and 
Antiquarian, were entirely destitute of breeding and 
civility. 

That writer has given an account of the manner, 
in which Christianity has formerly been propagated 
among the heathens. 

We adore the Divine Being, he who is from 
eternity to eternity. 

Thou, Lord, who hath permitted affliction to 
come upon us, shall deliver us from it, in due time. 

Ih this place, there were not only security, but 
an abundance of provisions. 

By these attainments are the master honoured, 
and the scholars encouraged. 

The sea appeared to be more than usually agitated. 

Not one in fifty of those who call themselves 
deists, understand the nature of the religion they 
reject. 

Virtue and mutual confidence is the soul oi 



promiscuous^) syntax, dS 

friendship. Where these ai'e Avanting, disgust or 
hatred often follow little ditlcrences. 

Time and chance happeneth to all men ; but 
every person do not consider who govern tho^e 
powerful causes. 

The active mind of man never or seldom lests 
satisfied with their present condition, howsoever 
prosperous. 

Habits must be acquired of temperance and oi 
self-denial, that we may be able to resist pleasure, 
and to endure pain, when either of them interfere 
with our duty. 

The error of resting wholly on faith, or on works, 
is one af those seductions which most easily misleads 
men ; under the semblance of piety, on the one 
1ia!fid, and of virtue on the other hand. 

It was no exaggerated tale; for she was really 
in that sad condition that her friend represented her. 

An army present a painful sight to a feeling mind. 

The enemies who w^e have most to fear, are those 
Df out own hearts. 

Thou art the Messiah, the Son of Ood, who was 
to come into the world, and hast been so long pro- 
mised and desired. 

Thomas disposition is better than his brothers ; 
atnd he appears to be the happiest man : but some 
degree of trouble is all mens portion. 

Though remorse sleep sometimes during prospe- 
IPity, it will awake surely in adversity. 

It is an invariable law to our present condition, 
^at every pleasure that are pursued to excess, con- 
vert themselves into poison. 

If a man brings into the solitary retreat otage, a 

vacant an unimproved m.ind, w^iere no knowledge 

dawns, no ideas rise, which w^ithin 'tself has nothing 

to feed upon, many a heavy and many a comfort- 

' less day he miust necessarily pass. 

-1 cannot yield to such dishonourable conduct^ 



100 EXERCISES, {Promiscnom 

neither at the present moment of difficulty, nor, I 
trust, under no circumstance whatever. 

Themistocles concealed the entei prises of Pausa 
nias, either thiiiking it base to betray the secrets 
trusted to his confidence, or imagined it impossible 
for such dangerous and ill-concerted schemes to 
take effect. 

Pericles gained such an ascendant over the minds 
of the Athenians, that he might be said to attain a 
monarchical power in Athens. 

Christ did applaud the liberality of the poor widow, 
who he had seen casting her two mites in the treasury. 

A multiplicity of little kind offices, in persons fre- 
quently conversant with each other, is the bands of 
society and of friendship. 

To do good to them that hate us, and, on no oc- 
casion, to seek revenge, is the duty of a Christian. 

If a man profess a regard for the duties of reli- 
gion, and neglect that of morality, that man's reli- 
gion is vain. 

Affluence might give us respect, m the eyes of 
the vulgar, but will not recommend us to the wise 
and good. 

The polite, accomplished libertine, is but misera- 
ble amidst all his pleasures : the rude inhabitant of 
Lapland is happier than him. 

The cheerful and the gay, when warn;ed by plea- 
sure and by mirth, lose that sobriety and that self- 
denial, which is essential to the support of virtue^ 

SECT. IL 

Key, p. 72. 

There were, in the metropolis, much to amuse 
them, as well as many things to excite disgust. 

How much is real virtue and merit exposed to 
5ufler the hardships of a stormy life ? 

This is on^ of tTie duties which requires pecuUair 
Dircunispection. 



Promwewott^.) syntax. 101 

More complete happiness than that I have de- 
scribed, seldom falls to ihe lot of mortals. 

There are principles in man, which ever have, and 
ever will incline him to offend. 

Whence have there arose such a great variety of 
opinion^s and tenets in religion ? 

Its stature is less than that of a man ; but its 
strength and agility much greater. 

They that honour me, them will I honour. 

He summonses me to attend, and I must summons 
the others. 

Then did the officer lay hold of him, and execut- 
ed him immediately. 

Who is that person whom I saw you mtroduce, 
and present him to the duke ? 

I offer observations that a long and chequered 
pilgrimage have enabled me to make on man. 

Every church and sect of people have a set ol 
opinions peculiar to th^nselves. 

May ihou a^ well as me, be meek, patient, and 
forgiving. 

Tl^se men were under high obligations to have 
adhered to their friend in every situation of life. 

After I visited Europe, I returned to America. 

Their example, their influence, their fortune, 
every talent they possess, dispenses blessings on all 
around them. 

When a string of such sentences succeed one ano- 
ther, the effect is disagreeable. 

I liave lately been in Gibraltar, and have seen the 
commander in chief. 

PropTiety of pronunciation, is the giving to every 
word the sound w^iich the politest usage of ttie lair* 
guage appropriates to it. 

The book is printed very neat, and on a ffne wov^ 
paper. 

The fables of tbe a^icionts are many of them high- 
^ instructive. 



102 EXERCISES. {Promiscuous 

He resembles one of those solitary animals, thai 
lias been forced from its forest, to gratify human 
curiosity. 

There is not, nor ought not to be, such a thing a* 
constructive treason. 

He is a new created knight, and his dignity sits 
awkward on him. 

Hatred or revenge are things deserving of cen- 
sure, w^herever they are found to exist. 

If you please to employ your thoughts on that 
subject, you would easily conceive our miserable 
condition. 

His speech contains one of the grossest and infa- 
mouse-st calumnies which ever was uttered. 

A too great variety of studies dissipate and weak- 
en the mind. 

Those two authors have each of them their merit. 

James was resolved to not indulge himself in such 
a cruel amusement. 

The not attending to this rule, is the source of a 
very common error. 

Calumny and detraction are sparks, which if you 
do not blow, they will go out of themselves. 

Clelia is a vain woman, whom if we do not flatter, 
she will be disgusted. 

That celebrated work was nearly ten years pub- 
lished, before its importance was at all understood. 

Ambition is so insatiable that it will make any 
sacrifices to attain its objects. 

A great mass of rocks thrown together by the 
hand of nature, with wildness and confusion, strike 
the mind with more grandeur than if they were ad- 
justed to one another with the accuratest symmetry. 

SECT. III. 

Key, p. 74. 

He showed a spiiit of forgiveness, and a magnani- 
mit}^, that does hotK)ur to iiu nature. 



Promtscuom ) syntax. 103 

They that honour me, I v\ill honour; and them 
that despise ine shall be ightly esteemed. 

Reason's whole pleasure, all the joys of sense. 
Lies in three words, health, peace, and competence. 

Having thus began to throw off the restraints oi 
reason, he was soon hurried into deplorable excesses. 

These arts have enlightened, and will enlighten, 
every person who shall attentively study them. 

When we succeed in our plans, its not to be at- 
tributed always to ourselves ; the aid of others often 
promote the end, and claim our acknowledgment. 

Their intentions were good ) but wanting pru- 
dence, they mist the mark for which they aimed. 

I have not, nor shall not consent to a proposal so 
unjist. 

Vfe have subjected ourselves to much expense, 
th^^t thou may be well educated. 

This treaty w^as made at earl Moreton the go- 
venor's castle. 

Be especially carefid that thou givest no offence 
to the aged or helpless. 

The business was no sooner opened, but It was 
C( rdially acquiesced in. 

As to his general conduct, he deserved punish- 
m**nt as much, or more than his companion. He 
Uu a son of a singular character, and behaved so ill 
l^iat he was put in prison. 

If he does but approve my endeavours, it will be 
&ii ample reward. 

1 beg the favour of your acceptance of a copy of 
ft view of the manufactories of the West Riding of 
the county of York. 

I intended to have written the letter, before he 
urged me to it ; and, therefore, he has not all the 
, merit of it. 

All the power of ridicule, aided by the desertion 
of friends, and the diminution of his estate, wer« 
not able to shake his princiolr?- 



104 ]|X|:hcises. {Promis€U^Ui 

In his conduct was treachery, and in his word^f 
faithless professions. 

Though the measure be mysterious, it is worthy 
of attention. 

Be solicitous to aid such deserving persons, who 
appear to be destitute of friends. 

Ignorance, or the want of light, produce sensu- 
E ity, covetousness, and those violent contests w lH 
ethers about trifles, which occasions so much misery 
and crimes in the world. 

He will one day reap the reward of his labour, if 
he is diligent and attentive. Till that period comes 
let him be contented and patient. 

To the resolutions which we have, upon due con- 
sideration, once adopted as rules of conduct, let 
us adhere firmly. 

He has little more of the great man besides the 
tide. 

Though he was my superior in knowledge, he 
would not have thence a right to impose his senti- 
ments. 

That picture of the emperor's, is a very exact re^ ' 
semblance of him. 

How happy are the virtuous, who can rest on the 
protection of the powerful arm, who made the earth 
and the heavens ! 

Prosperity and adversity may be improved equal- 
ly ; both the one and the other proceeds from the 
same author. 

He acted conformable with his itistructions, and 
cannot be censured justly. 

The orators did not forget to enlarge themselves 
on so popular a subject. 

The language of Divine Providence to all human 
agents, is, ** Hitherto shalt thou come, and no far* 
ther." 

Idle persons imagine, howsoever deficient they 
be in point of duty, they consult at least their own 
satisfaction. 



PT^.misCUOU^.) SYNTAX. 105 

Good as the cause is, it is one from which iiuui'? 
bers are deserted. 

The man is prudent which speaks little. 

SECT. IV. 

Key, p. 77. 

He acted independent of foreign assistance. 

Every thing that we here enjoy, change, decay, 
and come to an end. AH float on the surface of 
the river, which is running to a boundless ocean, 
with a swift current. 

The winter has not been as severe as we expect- 
ed it to have been. 

Temperance, more than medicines, are the pro- 
per means of curing many diseases. 

They understand the practical part better than 
hnn; but he is much better acquainted with the 
theory than them. 

When we have once drawn the line, by intelli- 
gence and precision, betw^een oui^ duty and sin, the 
!ine we ought on no occasion to transgress. 

All those distinguished by extraordinary talents, 
have extraordinary duties to perform. 

No person could speak stronger on this subject, 
nor behave nobler, than our young advocate for 
ihe cause of toleration. 

His conduct was so provoking, that many will 
condemn liim, and a few will pity him. 

The peoples happiness is the statesmans honour. 

We are in a perilous situation* On one siac, ana 
the other, dangers meet us ; and each extreme shall 
be pernicious to virtue. 

Several pictures of the Sardinian king were trans- 
aiitted to France. 

When 1 last saw him, he had grown considerably. 

If we consult the improvement of mind, or the 
health of body, it is well known exercise is the 
great instrument of promoting both. 

If it were them who acted so ungratefully, they 
ire doubly in fault* L 



106 EXERCISES. {Promiscuofis 

WJiether virtue promotes our interest or no, we 
must adhere to her dictates. 

We should be studious to avoid top much indul- 
gence, as well as restraint, in our management ol 
children. 

No human happiness is so complete, as does nm 
contain some imperfection. 

His father cannot hope for this success, unless 
his son gives better proofs of genius, or applies 
himself with indefatigable labour. 

The house framed a remonstrance, where they 
spoke with great freedom of the king's prerogative. 

The conduct which has been mentioned, is one 
of those artifices which seduces men most easily, 
under appearance of benevolence. 

This is the person who we are so much obliged 
to, and who we expected to have seen, when the 
favour was conferred. 

He is a person of great property, but does not 
possess the esteem of his neighbours. 

They were solicitous to ingratiate with those, 
who it was dishonourable to favour. 

The great diversity which takes place among 
men, is not owing to a distinction that nature made 
in their original powers, as much as to the superior 
diligence, with which some have improved those 
powers beyond others. 

While we are unoccupied in what is good, evi'i 
is at hand continually. 

Not a creature is there that moves, nor a vegeta- 
ble that grows, but what, when minutely examined, 
furnished materials of pious admiration. 

What can be the reason of the committee having 
delayed this business ? 

I know not whether Cnarles was the authoi, but 
I understood it to be he. 

A good and well cultivated mind, is far mere pr 
ferable than rank or riches. 



Promiscuous.) syntax. 1^! 

Charity to the poor, when it is governed by know- 
ledge and prudence, there are no persons who wiii 
not admit it to be a virtue. 

His greatest concern, and highest enjoyment. 
were to be approved in the sight of his Creator. 

Let us not set our hearts on such a mutable, such 
an unsatisfying world. 

SECT. V. 

Key, p. 79. 

Shall you attain success, without that prepara- 
tion, and escape dangers without that precaution, 
which is required of others ? 

When we see bad men to be honoured and pros- 
perous in the world, it is some discouragement to 
virtue. 

The furniture was all purchased at Wentworth^s 
the joiner^s. 

Every member of the body, every bone, joint, 
and muscle, lie exposed to many disorders , and the 
greatest prudence or precaution, or the deepest skill 
of the physician, are not sufficient to prevent them. 

it is right said, that though faith justify us, yet 
works must justify our faith. 

If an academy is establishea for the cultivation ot 
our language, let them stop the license of translators, 
whose idleness and ignorance, if it be suffered to 
proceed, wijl reduce us to babble a dialect of French. 

It is of great consequence that a teacher firmly 
believes, both the truth and imf>ortance of diose 
principle-3 which he inculcates upon others ; and 
that he not only speculatively believes them but 
has a lively and serious feeling of them. 

It is not the uttering, or the hearing certam 
words, that constitute the worship of the Almighty, 
ft is the heart that praises, or prays. If the heart 
accompany not the words that are spoken, we offer 
a sacrifice of fools. 



i08 EXERCISES. (Promiscuous 

Neither flatter or contemn the rich or the great. 

lie has travelled much, and passed through many 
stormy seas and lands. 

You must be sensible that there is, and can be nc 
other person but me, who could give the informa- 
tion desired. 

To be patient, resigned, and thankful, under af- 
tlictions and disappointments, demonstrate genuine 
piety. 

Alvarez was a man of corrupt principles, and of 
detestable conduct; and, what is still worse.^gloried 
iti his shame. 

As soon as the sense of the Supreme Being is lost 
so soon the great check is taken off which keep un- 
der restraint the passions of men. Mean desires, 
low pleasures, takes plrce of the greater and the 
nobler sentiments which reason and religion inspires. 

We should be careful not to follow the example 
of many persons, to censure the opinions, manners 
and customs of others, merely because they are 
foreign to us. 

Steady apph'cation, as well as genius and abilities, 
are necessary to produce eminence. 

There is, in that seminary, several students con- 
siderably skilled in mathematical knowledge. 

If Providence clothe the grass of the field, and 
shelters and adorns the flowers that every where 
grows wild amongst it, will he not clothe and pre- 
lect his servants and children much more ? 

We are too often huiried with the violence ol 
passion, or with the aiiurements of pleasure. 

Eiigh hopes, and florid views, is a great enemy to 
trtmquillity. 

Year after year steal something from us ; till th^ 
decaying fabric totters of itself, and crumbles at 
length into dust. 

I intended to have finished the letter before the 
!)earer called, that he might not have been <3et^i4*r^ 
ed ; b-ul I wis fH-e vented by <:<mi,pany> 



^,lhVlX$CUOUS.) SYNTAX. 109 

George is the most learned and accomplished o\ 
all the other students, that belong to the seminary. 

This excellent and well written treatis=e, with 
others (hat might be mentioned, were the foundation 
of his love of study. 

There can be no doubt but that the pleasures of 
the mind excel those of sense. 

SECT. VI. 

Key, p. 81. 

The grand temple consisted of one great, and 
several smaller edifices. 

Many would exchange gladly their honours, 
Deauty, and riches, for that more quiet and humbler 
station, which you are now dissatisfied with. 

Though the scene was a very affecting one, Louis 
showed a little emotion on the occasion. 

The climate of England is not so pleasant as those 
of France, Spain, or Italy. 

Much of the good and evil that happens to us in 
this world, are owing to apparently undesigned and 
fortuitous events: but it is the Supreme Being which 
secretly directs and regulates all things. 

To despise others on account of their poverty, 
or to value ourselves for our wealth, are disposi- 
tions highly culpable. 

This task was the easier performed, from the 
cheerfulness with which he engaged in it. 

She lamented the unhappy fate of Lucretia, who 
seemed to her another name for chastity. 

He has not yet cast off all the regard for decency; 
and this is the most can be advanced in his favour. 

The girls school was better conducted formerly 
tlian the boys. 

The disappointments he has met with, or the loss 
of his much-loved friend, has occasioned a total de- 
fangement of his mental powers* 

The concourse of people were so great, that wi^ 
difficulty we passed through them. 

L 2 



no E:^ERCiSES* iPromiscuous^ 

All the women, children, and treasure, whidl re* 
fiiained in tke cfly^ fcirunder the victor's "power. 

They have alreacly made great progress in their 
studies, and, if attention and diligence continues, 
will soon fulfil the expectations of their friends. 

It is amazing his propensity to this vice^ against 
€very principle of interest and honour. 

These kind of vices, though they inhabit the up- 
per circles of life, are not less pernicious, than those 
we meet with amongst the lowest of men. 

He acted agreeable to the dictates of prudence, 
though he were in a situation exceeding delicate. 

If I had known the distress of my friend, it would 
be my duty to have relieved him : and it would al- 
ways have yielded m^ pleasure to grant him that 
relief. 

They admired tlie countryman's, as they called 
him, candour and uprightness. 

The new set of curtains did not correspond to the 
fid pair of blinds. 

The tutor commends him for being more studious 
than any other pupils of the school. 

Two principles in human nature reign ; 
Self-love to urge, and reason to restrain ' 
Nor that a good, nor this a bad we call ; 
Each works its end, to move or govern all. 

Temperance and exercise, howsoever little they 
may be regarded, th^y are the best means of pre- 
serving health. 

He has greatly blessed me; yes, even I, who 
loaded with kindness, hath not been sufficiently 
grateful. 

No persons feel the distresses of others, so much 
as them that have experienced distress themselves. 

SECT. VII. 

Key, p. 83. 

Constantinople was the point, in which wa-s 
>v>nrentrated the learninor and science of the world. 



P'^OmiltUOUS.) SYM AX. Ill 

Disgrace not your station, by that grossjiess of 
sensuality, that levity of dissipation, or that inso- 
lence of rank, which bespeak a little mind^ 

A circ le, a square, a triangle, or a hexagon, please 
Ihe eye by their regularity, as beautiful figures. 

His conduct was equally unjust as dishonourable. 

Though, at first, he begun to defend himselfj yet, 
when the proofs appeared against him, he dared 
not any longer to contend. 

Many persons will not believe but what they 
are free from prejudices. 

The pleasure or pain of one passion, differ from 
those of another. 

The rise and fall of the tides, in this place^ 
makes a difference of about twelve feet. 

Five and seven make twelve, and one make* 
thirteen. 

He did not know who to suspect. 

I had intended yesterday to have walked out, 
but I have been again dissappointed. 

The court of Spain, who gave the order, wdre 
tiot aware of th^ consequence. 

If the acquisitions he has made, and qualified 
him to be a useful m.ember of society, should have 
been missapplied, he will be highly culpable. 

There was much spoke and wrote on each side 
of the question ; but I have chose to suspend my 
decision^ 

Was there no bad men in the world, who vex 
and distress the good, they might appear in the 
light of harmless innocence ; but could have no 
opportunity for displaying fidelity and magnan- 
imity, patience and fortitude. 

The most ignorant,^ and the most savage tribes 
of men, when they have looked round on the earth, 
and on the heavens, could not avoid ascribing 
their origin to some invisible, designing cause, 
^and felt a nropensity to. adore their Creator. 

that something nioie tha^ 



jf9 EXERCISES. {Promii .i^hi-s. 

gentleness and modesty, something more than com- 
placency of temper and affability of manners, are 
requisite to form a worthy man, or a true Christain. 

One of the first, and the most common extreme 
in moral conduct, is placing all virtue injustice, or 
in generosity. 

It is an inflexible regard to principle, which has 
ever marked the characters of them who distinguish* 
ed themselves eminently in public life : who patroni 
sed the cause of justice against powerful oppressors, 
in critical times, have supported the falling rights 
and liberties of men ; and reflected honour on their 
nation and country. 

When it is with regard to trifles, that diversity or 
contrariety ctf opinions show themselves, it is child- 
ish in the last degree, if this becomes the ground cf 
estranged affection. When from such a cause, there 
arise any breach of friendship, human weakness is 
discovered then in a mortifying light. In matters 
of serious moment, the sentiments of the best and 
worthiest might vary from that of their friends, ac- 
cording as their lines of life diverge, or as their 
temper, and habits of thought, presents objects un- 
der different points of view. But with candid and 
liberal minds, unity of affection still will be pre- 
served. 

Desires and wishes are the first spring of action. 
When they become exorbitant, the whole of the 
character is like to be tainted. If we should suffer 
our fancies to create to themselves, worlds ot idea! 
happiness ; if we should feed our imagination with 
plans of opulence and of splendour ; if we should fix 
10 our wishes certain stages of a high advancement, 
or certain degrees of an uncommon reputation, as 
the sole station of our felicity ; the assured conse- 
quence shall be, that we will become unhappy under 
our present state ; that w^e shall be unfit for acting 
tile part, and for discharging the duties that belong 



Promiscuous.) gVNTAX. 113 

o it; and we shall discompose the peace and order 
ofour minds, and shall foment many hurtful passions. 
Maria always appears amiably. She never speaks 
severe or contemptuous.* 

• Young persons wlio study grammar, find it difficult to decide, 
in particular constructions, whether an adjective or an adverb ought 
to be used. A few observations on this point may serve to inform 
then* judgment, and direct their determination. — They should care« 
fully attend to the definitions of the adjective and the adverb, and 
consider whether, in the case in question, quality or maimtry is in- 
dicated. In the former case, an adjective is proper: in tlie latter, 
an adverb. A number of examples will illustrate this direction, 
and prove useful on other occasions. 

She looks cold — She looks coldly on him. 

He feels warm — He feels warmly the insult offered to him. 

He became sincere and virtuous — He became sincerely virtuous 

She lives free from care — -He lives freely at another's expense. 

Harriet always appears neat — She dresses neatly. 

Charles has gi'own great b}' his Vv'isdom — He has grown greatly 
In reputation. 

They now appear happy — They now appear happily in earnest 

The statement seems exact — The statement seems exactly in 
point. 

The verb lo 5e, in all its moods and tenses, generally requires the 
word immediately connected with it to be an adjective, not an ad- 
vei'b ; and, con-sequently, when thrs verb can be substituted for any 
other, without varying the sense or the construction, that othei 
verb must also be connected with an adjective. The following 
sentences elucidate these observations : " This is agreeable to our 
interest; That behaviour was not suitable to his station; Kules 

is 
^ould be eonformable to sense ;'* " The rose smells sweet ; How 

is , is 

sweet the hay smells I How delightful the country appears ! How 

are are 

pleasant the fields look! The clouds look dark; How black the 

\va-3 is •were 

«iy looked! The apple tastes sour; How bitter the plums tasted ' 

He feels happy/' la all these sentences, we ean wkh perfect pro* 
priety, substitute some tenses of the verb /o he for the other verbs. 
But in the following sentences, we cannot do this : "The dog smells 
disagreeably ; George feels exquisitely ; How pleasantly she looks 
at us !" 

Tlie directions contained in this not ; are offered as useful, not 
m complete ajid unexceptionable. Ar omolies in language every 
where encounter us : but we must not reject rules, because Ihej 
•re -attended with exce^Vcioas. 



PART IV. 
Exercises in Punctuatioh. 

CHAP, L 

Sentences which require the appvication of the Commn^i 
disposed under the particular rules 

Grammar, p. 236. Key, p. S6. 



RULE I. 

The tear ol repentance brings its own relief. 

Manhood is disgraced by the consequences ol 
neglected youth. 

Idleness is the great fomenter of all corruptions 
in the human heart* 

It is honourable to be a friend to the unfortunate. 

All finery is a sign of littleness. 

Slovenliness and indelicacy of character common' 
ly go hand in hand. 

The friend of order has made half his way to 
virtue. 

Too many of the pretended friendships of youli 
are mere combinations in pleasure. 

The indulgence of harsh dispositions is the intro 
duction to future misery. 

The intermixture of evil in human society serves 
to exercise the suffering graces and virtues of the 
good* 

RULE 11. 

Grammar, p. 235. Key, p. 87. 

Gentleness is in truth he great avenue to mutual 
enjoyment. 



Camnia.) punctuation, tlA 

Charity like the sun bnghtens all its objects. 

The tutor by instruction and discipline lays the 
foundation of the pupil's future honour. 

Trials in this stage of being are the lot of man. 

No assumed behaviour can always hide the real 
character. 

The best men often experience disappointments. 

Advice should be seasonably administered. 

RULE III. 

Self-conceit presumption and obstinacy blast the 
prospect of many a youth. 

In our health life possessions connexions pleasures 
there are causes of decay imperceptibly working. 

Discomposed thoughts agitated passions and a 
ruffled temper poison every pleasure of life. 

Vicissitudes of good and evil of trials and conso- 
lations fill up the life of man. 

Health and peace a moderate fortune and a few 
friends sum up all the undoubted articles of tem* 
poral felicity. 

We have no reason to complain of the lot of man 
or the world's mutability. 

RULE IV. 

An idle trifling sbciety is near akin to such as is 
corrupting. 

Conscious guilt renders us mean-spirited timor- 
ous and base. 

An upright mind will never be at a loss to discern 
what is just and true lovely honest and of good re- 
port. 

The vicious man is often looking round him with 
anxious and fearful circumspection. 

True friendship will at all times avoid a careless 
or rough behaviour. 

' Time brings a gentle and powerful opiate to all 
misfortunes. 



116 EXERCISES* (Ca7nmti 

RULE V. 
Grammar, p. 236. Key, p. SS. 

The man of virtue and honour will be trusted n> 
lied upon and esteemed. 
, Deliberate slowly execute promptly. 

A true friend unbosoms freely advises justly 
assists readily adventures boldly takes all patiently 
defends resolutely and continues a friend unchange- 
ably. 

Sensuality contaminates the body depresses the 
understanding deadens the moral feelings of the 
heart and degrades man from his rank in the crea- 
tion. 

Idleness brings forward and nourishes many bad 
passions. 

We must stand or fall by our own conduct and 
character. 

The man of order catches and arrests the hours 
as they fly. 

The great business of life is to be employed in 
doing Justly loving mercy and walking humbly with 
our Creator. 

RULE VI. 

This unhappy person had often been seriously af- 
fectionately admonished but in vain* 

To live soberly righteously and piously compre- 
hends the whole of our duty. 

Whf^n thy friend is calumniated openly and boldly 
espouse his cause. 

jBenefits should be long and gratefully remem- 
bered. 

RULE VII. 

True gentleness is native feeling heightened and 
improved by principle. 

The path of piety and virtue pursued with a firm 
and constant spirit wiM assuredly lead to happiness. 



Vommu.) pu.^TUA TioJ^. \V\ 

Human affairs are in continual motion and fluctu 
ation altering their appearance every moment and 
passinzT 'pIo some new form.^. 

What can be said to alarm those of their danger 
who intoxicated with pleasures become giddy and 
Insolent ; who ikittered by the illusions of prosperity 
make light of every serious admonition which their 
fiiends and the changes of the ^vorld give them : 

RULE viir. 

If from any internal cause a man's peace of mind 
be disturbed in vain we load him ^with riches or 
honours.- 

Gentleness delights above all things to alleviate 
distress; and if it cannot dry up the falling tear to 
sooth at least the grieving heart. 

Wherever Christianity prevails it has discouraged 
and in some degree abolished slavery. 

We may rest assured that by the steady pursuit of 
/irtue we shall obtain and enjoy it. 

RULE IX. 

Grammar, p. 237. Key, p. 89. 

Continue my dear child to make virtue thy prin- 
cipal study. 

To you my worthy benefactors am I indebted un- 
der Providence for all 1 enjoy. 

Canst thou expect thou betrayer of innocence to 
escape the hand of vengeance t 

Come then companion of my toils let us take irebi* 
courage persevere and hope to the end. 

RULE X. 

Peace of mind being securecl we may smi.s at 
mislortunes. 

Virtue abandoned and conscience reproaching us 
we become terrified with imaginary evils. 

M 



I18_ EXERCJs*:s. {Comma^ 

Cliarles having been deprived of the help of tutors 
his studies became tc tally neglected. 

To prevent further altercation I submitted to the 
terms proposed. 

To en]oy present pleasure he sacrificed his fulu/e 
ease and reputation. 

To say the least they have betrayed great want 
of prudence. 

RULE XI. 

Hope the balm of life sooths us under every mis* 
fortune. 

Content the* offspring of virtue dwells both in re» 
tirement and in the active scenes of life. 

Confucius the great Chinese philosopher was 
eminently good as well as wise. 

The patriarch Joseph is an illustrious example of 
chastity resignation and filial affection. 

RULE XII. 

Grammar, p. 237. Key, p. 90. 

Nothing is so opposite to the true enjoyment oi 
life as the relaxed and feeble state of an indolent 
mind. 

The more a man speaks of himself the less be 
likes to hear another talked of. 

'^Jolliingmore strongly inculcates resignation than 
tne experience of our own inability to guide our- 
selves. 

The friendships of the world can subsist no longer 
than interest cements them. 

Expect no more from the ^orld than it is able lo 
afford you. 

RULE XIIU 

He who is a stranger to industry may possess but 
he cannot enjoy. 



Ornima,) pukctuation. 119 

Contrition though it may melt ought not to sink 
or overpower the heart of a Christian. 

The goods of this world were given to man for 
his occasional refreshment not for his chief felicity 

It is the province of superiors to dn'ect of inferiors 
to obey ; of the learned to be instructive of the ig- 
norant to be docile; of the old to be communicative 
of the young to be attentive and diligent. 

Though unavoidable calamities make a part yet 
they make not the chief part of the vexations and 
sorrows that distress human life. 

An inquisitive and meddling spirit o^ten interrupts 
the good order and breaks the peace of society. 

RULE XIV. 
Grammar, p. 238. Key, p. 91. 

Vice is not of such a nature that w^e can say to Jt 
•* Hitherto shalt thou come and no further.'^ 

One of the noblest cf the Christian virtues is 'Uo 
love our enemies/' 

Many too confidently say to themselves '* My 
mountain stands strong and it shall never be re- 
moved." 

We are strictly enjoined '* not to follow a multi- 
tude to do evil.'' 

RULE XV. 

The gentle mind is like the smooth stream which 
reflects every object in its just proportion and in its 
fairest colours. 

Peware of those rash and dangerous connexions 
which may afterwards load you with dishonour. 

Blind must that man be who discerns not the most 
striking marks of a Divine government exercised 
over the world. 

It is labour only w^hich gives the relish to pleasure* 

In that unaffected civility which springs from a 
gentle mind there is an incomparable charm. 

They who raise envy will easily incur censure 



Ho EXERCISES. {Comrm. 

Many of the evils which occasion our com- 
plaints of the world are wholly imaginary. 

lie who is good before invisible witnesses Is emi- 
nently so before the visible. 

His conduct so disinterested and generous wa» 
universally approved. 

RULE XVI. 
Gramraar, p. 239. Key, p. 92. 

The fumes which arise from a heart boiling witb 
violent passions never fail to darken and trouble the 
understanding. 

If we delay till to-morrow what ought to be done 
to-day we overcharge the morrow with a burden 
which belongs not to it. 

By whatever means we may atfirstattract the at- 
tention we can hold the esteem and secure the hearts 
of others only by amiable dispositions and the ac- 
complishments of the mind. 

If the mind sow not corn it will plant thistles. 

One day is sufficient to scatter our prosperity and 
brin2; it to noueht. 

Graceful in }'ouih arc the tears of sympathy and 
the heart that melts at the tale of wo. 

The ever active and restless power of thought if 
not employed about what is goodwill naturally and 
unavoidably engender evil. 

He v*ho formed the heart certainly knows wha? 
passes withm it. 

To be humble and modest in opinion to be yigi 
iant and attentive in conduct to distrust fair appear 
ances and to restrain rash desires are instructions 
which the darkness of our present state shoulq 
strongly inculcate. 

RULE XVII. 

Grammar, p. ^39. Key, p. 9a. 

The greatest misery is to be condemned oy ouf 
own hearts. 



Comma,) PUNCxuAtioN. HH; 

The greatest misery that we can endure is to be 
condemned by our own hearts. 

Charles's highest enjoyment was to relieve the 
distressed and to do good. 

The highest enjoyment d.^at Charles ever experi- 
enced was to relieve the distressed and to do good. 

RULE XVIII. 

If opulence increases our gratifications it increases 
in the same proportion our desires and demands. 

He whose wishes respecting the possessions of 
this world are the most reasonable and bounded is 
likely to lead the safest and for that reason the most 
desirable life. 

By aspirrng too high we frequently miss the hap- 
piness which by a less ambitious aim we might have 
gained. 

By proper management we prolong our time ; we 
live more in a few years than others do in many. 

In your most secret actions suppose that you have 
all the world for witness^es. 

In youth the habits of industry are most easily 
acquired. 

What is the right path few take the trouble of in- 
quiring. 

RULE XIX. 

Providence never intended that any state here 
should be either completely happy or entirely miser- 
able. 

As a companion he was severe a .^ A.iini: ai ; as a. 
friend captious and dangerous; n nU uoniesoer 
sphere harsh jealous and irascible.. 



^^2 iEXEkciSES. (Seniicotok. 

RULE XX. 
Grammar, p. 240. Key, p. 94 

Be assured then that order frugality and economy 
are the necessary supports of every personal and 
private virtue. 

i proceed secondly to point out the proper state 
of our temper with respect to one another. 

Here every thing is in stir and fluctuation ; there 
all is serene steady and orderly. 

I shall make some observations first on the extern 
nal and next on the internal condition of man. 

Sometimes timidity and false shame prevent oui 
opposing vicious customs ; frequently expectation 
and interest impel us strongly to comply. 

CHAP. II. 

Sentences requiring the insertion of the Semicolon 
and Comma. 
Gram mar, p. 240. Key, p. 94. 

That darkr^ess of character wh^re we €an see no 
heart those foldings of art through which no native 
affection is allowed to penetrate present an object 
unamiable in ey^vy season of life but particularly 
Ddious in youth. 

To give an early preference to honour above gain 
when they stand in competition to despise every 
advantage which cannot be attained without dis- 
honest arts to brook no meanness and to stoop to no 
dissimulation are the indications of a great mind the 
presa2:es of future eminence and usefulness in life. 

As Ihere is a worldly happiness w^hich God per^ 
ceives to be no other than disguised misery as there 
are worldly honours which in his estimation are re** 
proach so there is a worldly wisdom which in his 
sight is foolishness. 

The ^ ^ssions are the chief destroyers of our peace 
^e storms and tempests of the moral world* 



Colon, ^rc:.) ruNCTUATfON. ^33 

H€aven is the region of gentleness ami friendship 
hell of fierceness and aninrosity. 

The path of truth is a plaiii and a safe path thai 
of falsehood is a perplexing maze. 

Modesty is one of the chief ornaments of youth 
and it has ever been esteemed a presage of rising 
merit. 

Life with a swift though insensible course glides 
away and like a river which undermines its banks 
gradually impairs our state. 

The violent spirit like the troubled waters renders 
back the images of things distorted and broken and 
communicates to them all that disordered motion 
which arises solely from its own agit<^tion. 

Levity is frequently the forced production of folly 
or vice cheerfulness is the natural offspring of wis- 
dom and virtue only. 

Persons wh'o live according to order may be com- 
pared to the celestial bodies which move in regular 
courses and by stated laws whose influence is bene- 
•feient whose operations are quiet and iranquiL 

CHAP. III. 

Sentences requiring tKe application of the Colon^ <J^C, 
Grammar, p. 241. Key, p, 96. 

The three great enemies to tranquility are vice 
superstition and idleness vice wnich poisons and dis- 
turbs the mind with bad passions superstition wdiich 
fills it wnth imaginary terrors idleness which load:s 
it with tediousness and disgust. 

To sail on the tranquil surface of an unrufHed lata 
and to steer a safe course t+rraugh a troubled am: 
stormy ocean require different talents and alas ! hu- 
-man life oftener resembles the stormy ocean Ui^ 
^ii€ uni^uiHed lake. 



tit4 EXERcrsES. {Colon, fyc\ 

When we look forward to the year which is be« 
ginning what do we behold there ^ All my bretheu 
is a blank to our view a dark unknown presents itselfc 

Happy would the poor man think himself if he 
could enter on all the treasures of the rich and happy 
for a short time he might be but before he had long 
contemplated and admired his state his possessicui 
would seem to lessen and his cares would grow* 

By doing or at least endeavouring to do our duty 
to God and man by acquiring an humble trust in the 
mercy and favour of God through Jesus Christ by 
cultivating our minds and properly employing our 
time and thoughts by governing our passions and 
our temper by correcting all unreasonable expect- 
tations from the world and from men and in the 
midst of worldly business habituating ourselves to 
calm retreat and serious recollection by such means 
as these it may be hoped that through the Divine 
blessing our days shall flow in a stream as unruffled 
as the human state admits. 

A metaphor is a comparison expressed in an 
abridged form but without any of the words that 
denote comparison as *' To the upright there ariseth 
light in darkness.'' 

All our conduct towards men should be influenced* 
by this important precept " Do unto others as yon 
would that others should do unto you." 

Philip III. king of Spain when he drew near the 
end of his days seriously reflecting on his past life 
and greatly affected with the rememberance of his 
mispent time expressed his deep regret in these 
terms *'Ah ! how happy would it have been for md^ 
had I spent in retirement these tw 
^at I have possessed my king^i 



P^rxod.^ PUNCTUATION. 125 



CHAP- IV. 

Sentencts which require the insertion of the Pt 
riod, (^'C* 

Gi*aminar, p. 242. Key, p. 97. 

The absence of Evil is a real Good Peace Quiet 
axeniption from pain should be a continual feast 

Worldly happiness ever tends to destroy itself by 
corrupting the heart It fosters the loose and the 
Violent passions It engenders noxious habits and 
taints the mind with false Delicacy which makes it 
feel a Thousand unreal Evils 

Feeding the hungry clothing the Naked com- 
forting the afflicted yield more pleasure than we re* 
c-eive from those actions wdiich respect only Our- 
selves Benevolence may in this view be termed the 
most refined self-love . 

The Resources of Virtue remain entire w^hen the 
Days of trouble come They remain with us in 
Sickness as in Health in Poverty as in the midst of 
Riches in our dark and solitary Hours no less than 
when surrounded with friends and cheerful Society 
The mind of a good man is a kingdom to him and 
•e can always enjoy it 

We ruin the Happiness of life when we attempt 
10 raise it too high A tolerable and comfortable 
State is all that we can propose to ourselves on 
Earth Peace and Coiitentment not Bliss nor Tran 



* As eveiy learner is supposed to know, that the first word in a 
sentence raust have a capital letter, there would be little exercise 
of his. jadgment, in applying the period, if no words were distJn- 
gui?hed by capital letters, but such as propriety required. The com- 
piler has, tiierefore, in this and the following chapters, affixed capi. 
tals to many words, which should properly begin with small letters. 
This raetliod, besides the use chieHy intended, wiH also serve to 
we^-cise the student in the proper application of capital letters. 



1S6 EXERCISES, {Dash^ ire. 

Sport are the full Portion of Man Perfect joy is re- 
served for Heaven. 

If we look around us v^re shall perceive that the 
Whole Universe is full of Active Powers Action is 
indeed the Genius of Nature by Motion and exer- 
tion the System of being is preserved n vigour 
By its difl^*rent parts always acting in Subordination 
one to another the Perfection of the Whole is car- 
ried on The Heavenly Bodies perpetually revolve 
Day and Night incessantly repeat their appointed 
course Continual operations are going on in rhe 
Earth and in the Waters Nothing stands still 

Constantine the Great was advanced to the sole 
Dominion of the Roman World A D 325 and soon 
after openly professed the Christian Faith 

The Letter concludes with this Remarkable Post 
script "PS Though I am innocent of the Charge 
and have been bitterly persecuted yet I cordially 
forgive my Enemies and Persecutors" 

The last Edition of that valuable Work was care- 
fully compared with the Original MS 

CHAP. V. 

Sentences requiring the appli<Mhon of the Dash ^ 
of the J^otes of Interrogation and Exclamation ; 
and of the Parenthetical character's^ 

Grammar, p. 243. Key, p. 99. 

Beauty and Strength coLibined with Virtue and 
Piety how lovely in the sight of men how pleasing 
to Heaven peculiarly pleasing because with every 
Temptation to deviate they voluntarily walk in the 
Path of Duty. 

Something there is more needful than expense 
And some4;hing previous e'en to taste 'tis sense 

*' PU live to-morrow" will a wise man say 
To-morrow is too late then live to day 



Dash^ ^c.) PUNCTUATION. 127 

Gripus has long been ardently endeavouring tofilJ 
his Chest and lo it is now full is he happy and does 
he use it Docs he gratefully think of the Giver ^f all 
good Things Does he distribute to the Pour Alas 
these Interests have no Place in his breast 

What is there in all the pomp of the world the 
Enjoyments of Luxury the Gratification of Passion 
comparable to the tranquil Delight of a good Cc»- 
science 

To lie down on the Pillow after a Day spent m 
Temperance in beneficence and in piety how sweet 
is it 

We wait till to-morrow to be Hap})y alas Why 
not to-day Shall we be younger Are we sure we 
shall be healthier Will our passions become feebler 
and our love of the world less 

What shadow can be more vain than the life of a 
great Part of Mankind Of all that eager and bustling 
Crowd which we behold on Earth how few discover 
the path of true Happiness How few can we find 
whose Activity has not been misemployed and whose 
Course terminates not in Confessions of Disappoint- 
ments 

On the one Hand are the Divine Approbation and 
immortal Honour on the other remember and be* 
ware are the stings of Conscience and endkss In- 
famy 

As in riper Years all unseasonable Returns to the 
Levity of Youth ought to be avoided an Admonition 
iv^hich equally belongs to both the Sexes still more 
Are we to guard against those intemperate Indul- 
gences of Pleasure to which the young are unhappily 
prone 

The bliss of man could pride that blessing find 
Is not to act or think beyond mankind 
Or why so long in life if long can be 
Lent Heav'n a parent to the poor and me 



128 EXERCISES. {PrGmiscuom 

CHAP. VL 

Promiscuous examples of defective Punctuation^ 

SECT. 1. 

EXAMPLES IN PROSE. 

See the Key, p. 100. 

When Socrates was asked Avhat man approached 
the nearest to perfect happiness he answered That 
Man who has the fewest wants 

She who studies her Glass neglects her heart 

Between Passion and Lying there is not a Finger's 
breadth 

The freer we feel ourselves in the Presence ol 
others the more free are they he who is free makes 
free 

Addison has remarked with equal Piety and 
Truth that the Creation is a pei'petual Feast to the 
Mind of a Good Man 

He who shuts out all evasion when he promises 
loves truth 

The laurels of the Warrior are dyed in Blood 
and bedewed with the Tears of the Widow and the 
Orphan 

Between Fame and true Honour a Distinction is 
to be made The former is a loud and noisy Applause 
the latter a more silent and internal Homage Fame 
floats on the Breath of the IMultitude Honour rests 
on the Judgment of the Thinking Fame may give 
Praise while it withholds Esteem true Honour im- 
plies Esteem mingled v/ith respect The one regards 
Particular distinguished Talents the other looks up 
to the whole character 

There is a certain species of religion if we can 
give it that Name which is placed wholly inSpecu- 



Promiscuous.) punctuation. 129 

iation and Belief in the Regularity of external Ho- 
mage or in fiery Zeal about contested Opinions 

Xenophanes who was reproached with being ti- 
morous because he would not venture his Money m 
a Game of Dice made this manly and sensible Reply 
I confess I am exceedingly timorous for I dare not 
commit an evil Action 

He loves nobly I speak of Friendship who is not 
jealous when he has Partners of love 

Our happiness consists in the pursuit much more 
than in the Attainment of any Temporal Good 

Let me repeat it He only is Great who has the 
Habits of Greatness 

Prosopopoeia or Personification is a Rhetorical 
Figure by which we attribute Life and Action to 
inanimate objects as the Ground thirsts for Rain the 
Earth smiles with Plenty 

The proper and rational Conduct of Men with 
Regard to Futurity is regulated by two Considera- 
tions First that much of What it contains must re- 
main to us absolutely Unknow^n Isext that there are 
also some Events in it which may be certainly known 
and foreseen 

, The Gardens of the World produce only decidu- 
ous flowers Perennial ones must be sought in the 
Delightful Regions Above Roses without Thorns 
are the growth of Paradise alone 

How many Rules and maxims of Life might be 
spared could we fix a principle of Virtue within and 
inscribe the living Sentiment of the love of God in 
the affections He who loves righteousness is Masier 
of all the distinctions in Morality 

He w^ho from the Benignity of his Nature erected 
this World for the abode of Men He who furnished 
\i so richly for our accommodation and stored it 
with so much Beauty for our Entertainment He who 
since first we entered into Life hath followed its 
with such a Variety of Mercies this Amiable and 

N 



ISO EXERCISES. {Promiscuous* 

Beneficent Being surely can have no pleasure in our 
Disappoiiitment and distress lie knows our Frame 
he remembers we are dust and looks to frail Man 
^e are assured with such Pity as a Father beareih 
to his children 

Dne of the first Lessons both of Religion and of 
Wisdom IS to moderate our Expectations and hopes 
?ind not to set forth on the Voyage of Life like Men 
who expect to be always carried forward with a 
fevourable Gale Let us be satisfied if the path we 
tread be easy and smooth though it be not strewed 
with Flowers 

Providence never intended that the Art of living 
happily in this World should depend on that deep 
Penetration that acute sagacity and those Refine- 
ments of Thought which few possess It has dealt 
more giaciously with us and made happiness depend 
on Uprightness of Intention much more than on 
Extent of Capacity. 

Most of our Passions flatter us in their Rise But 
their Beginnings are treacherous their Growth is 
imperceptible and the Evils which they carry in 
their Train lie concealed until their Dominion is 
established What Solomon says of one of them holds 
true of them all that their Beginning is as when one 
letteth out Water It issues from a small Chink which 
once might have been easily stopped but being ne- 
glected it is soon widened by the Stream t;]l the Bank 
is at last totally thrown down and the Flood is at 
Liberty to deluge the v/hole plain 

Prosperity debilitates instead of strengthening the 
Mind Its most common effect is to create an extreme 
sensibility to the slightest Wound It foments impa- 
tient Desires and raises Expectations which no Suc- 
cess can satisfy It fosters a false Delicacy which 
sickens in the midst of Indulgence By repeated 
Gratification it blunts the feelings of Men to what »s 
pleasing and leaves them unhappily acute to whatevei 



Promiscuous.) punctuaticw. Ml 

is uneasy Hence the Gale which another would 
scarcelj feel is to the prosperous a rude Tempest 
Hence the Rose-leaf doubled below them on the 
Couch as it is told of the effeminate Sybarite breaks 
their Rest Hence the Disrespect shown by Mordecai 
preyed with such Violence on the Heart of Haman 

Anxiety is the Poison of Human Life It is the 
Parent of many Sins and of more Miseries In a 
World where every thing is so doubtful where we 
may succeed in our Wish and be miserable where 
we may be disappointed and be blest in the Dis- 
appointment what mean this restless Stir and Com- 
motion of Mind Can our Solicitude alter the Course 
or unravel the Intricacy of Human Events Can our 
Curiosity pierce through the Cloud which the Su- 
preme Being hath made impenetrable to Mortal Eye 

No situation is so remote and no Station so unfa- 
vourable as to preclude access to the happiness of a 
future State A Road is opened by the Divine Spirit 
to those blissful Habitaiions from all Corners of the 
Earth and from all Conditions of Human Life from 
the peopled City and from the solitary Desert from 
the Cottages of the Poor and from the Palaces of 
Kings from the Dwellings of Ignorance and Simpli- 
city and from the Regions of Science and Improve- 
ment 

The Scenes which present themselves at cur enter- 
.ng upon the World are commonly flattering What- 
ever they be in themselves the lively Spirits of the 
SToung gild every opening Prospect The Field ol 
Hope appears to stretch wide before them Pleasure 
seems to put forth its Blossoms on every Side Im 
pelled by Desire forward they rush with inconside- 
rate Ardour prom^pt to decide and to choose averse 
to hesitate or to Inquire credulous because untaught 
byExperience rash because unacquainted v/itli Dan- 
ger headstrong because unsubdued by Disappoint- 
ment Hence arise the Perils to which they are ex- 



135 EXERCISE^* ^jPj 



TOmiSCUOtiM. 



posed and which too often from Want of Attention 
to faithful Admonition precipitate them into Ruin 
irretrievable 

By the unhappy Excesses of Irregular Pleasure in 
Youth how many amiable Dispositions are corrupt- 
ed or destroyed How many rising Capacities and 
Powers are suppressed How many flattering Hopes 
of Parents and Friends are totally extinguished Who 
but must drop a Tear over Human Nature when he 
beliolds that Morning which arose so bright over- 
cast with such untimely Darkness that Sweetness 
of Temper which once engaged many Hearts that 
Modesty which was so prepossessing those Abilities 
which promised extensive Usefulness all sacrificed 
at the Shrine of low Sensua:lity and one who was 
formed for passing through Life in the midst of 
Public Esteem cut off by his Vices at the Beginning 
of his Course or sunk for the whole of it into Insig- 
nificance and Contempt These O sinfial Pleasure 
are thy Trophies It is thus that co-operating with 
the Foe of God and Man thou degmdest Hum.an 
HoLO^-ir and blastest die opening Prospects of \lw 
^n FeljcUy* 



PUNCTUATIOIf^. tSft 

SECT. IT. 

EXAMPLES IN POETR?^. 

See the Key, p. 105. 

fe thy true treasure Gold says not in !ne 
not : n me the Diamond Gold is poor 

Th3 scenes of business tell iIs what are men 
The scenes of pleasure what is all beside 

Wo then apart if wo apart can be 
From mortal man and fortune at our nod 
The gay rich great triumphant and august 
What are they The most happy strange to say 
Ooavince me most of human misery 

All this dread order break for whom for thee 
^ile worm O madness pride impiety 

Man like the generous vine supported lives 

The strength he gains is from the embrace he gives 

Know natures s children all divide her care 
The fur that warms a monarch warm d a bear 
^hile man exclaims see all things for my use 
See man for mine replies a pamper d goose 
And just as short of reason he must fall 
Who thinks ^ made for one not one for sS. 

The Almighty from his throne on earth suTYeyat 
"bought greater than an honest humble heart 
4n humble heart his residence gronounc di 
Hk second seat 



i$4 ETiTECiSES*. ( Promts cuoiiif 

There is a time when toil mustbe preferrd 
Or joy. by mistim d funduess is undone 
A man of pleasure is a man of pains 

Thus nature gives us let it check our pride 
The virtue nearest to our vice allied 

See the sole bhss Heav n could on all bestow 
Which who but feels can taste but thinks can know. 
Yet poor with fortune and*with learning blind 
The bad musiiniss ike good untaught will find 

Whatever is is right This world tis true 

Was made for Caesar but for Titus too 

And which more blest who chain d his country »ay 

Or he whose virtue sigh d to lose a day 

The first sure symptom of a mind in health 
Is rest of heart a:nd pleasure felt at home 

True happiness resides in things unseen 
No smiles of fortune ever bless the bad 
Nor can her frowns rob innocence of joy 

Oh the dark days of vanity while here 
How tasteless and how terrible when gone 
Gene they ne er go when past they haunt u« %^U 

Father of light and life Thou good supreme 
O teach me what is good Teach me thyself 
Save me from folly vanity and vice 
From ev ry lov/'pursuit and feed my soul 
With knowledge conscious peace and virtue p\if« 
Sacred substantial never fading bliss 

If I am right thy grace impart 

Still in the right to stay 
Ifl am wrong O teach my heart 

To Soki that hotter yr%% 



promiscuous.) PtJNCTUAflOM. 

Save me alike from foolish pride 

Or impious discontent 
At aught thy wisdom has denied 

Or aught thy goodness lent 

O lost to virtue lost to mauly thought 
Lost to the noble scillies of the soul 
Who think it solitude to be alone 
Communion sweet communion large and high 
Our reason guardian angel and our God 
Then nearest these when others most remote 
And all ere long shall be reniote but these 

Bisnevolence. 

God loves from whole to parts but human soul 
Must rise from individual to fne v/hole 
Self love but serves the virtuous mind to wake 
As the small pebble stirs the peaceful lake 
The centre mov d a circle straight succeeds 
Another still and still another spreads 
Friend parent neighbour first it will embrace 
His country next and next all human race 
Wide and more wide th o erflowings of the ;nina 
Take ev ry creature in of ev ry kind 
Earth smiles around with boundless bounty blest 
And heav n beholds its image in its breast 

TIappiness. 

Know then this truth enough for man to know 
Virtue alone is happiness below 
The only point where human bliss stands slilr 
And tastes the good v/ithout the fail to ill 
Where only merit constant pay receives 
b blest in what it takes and what it gives 
The joy unequall d if its end it gam 
And if it lose attended with no pain 
Without satiety tho e er so blest 
iaad: hvt mor4> relish d a^ the more dUtr^sa^^ 



t$€ EXERCISJlBv. 

The broadest mirth unfeeling folly weai^ 
Less pleasing far than virtue s very tears 
Good from each object from each place at 
For ever exercis d yet never tir d 
Never elated while one man s oppress i 
Never dejected while another s blest 
And where no wants no wishes can renfc 
Since but to wish more virtue is to gaift 

Gratitude. 

When all thy mercies O my God 

My rising soul surveys 
Transported with the view I m lost 

In wonder love and praise 

Oh how shall words with equal war 

The gratitude declare 
That glows within my ravish d heaK: 

But thou canst read it there 

Thy providence my life sustain d 

And all my wants redress d 
When in the silent womb I lay 

And hung upon the breast 

To all my weak complaints anc' _ • 

Thy mercy lent an ear 
Ere yet my feeble thoughts liad l^ 

To form themselves in pray r ? 

IJnnumberd comforts to my soul 

Thy tender care bestow d 
Before my infant heart conceivdi 

From whom those comforts tLot - 

When Ml the sHpp ry paths of 

With heedless steps I ran 
Thine arm unseen convey dio^ 

And led me up to man 



ProTniscnous.) FUNcl'UA'riON. 137 

iTb rough hidden dangers toils and death 

It gently clear d my way 
^nd through the pleasing snares of vice 

More to be fear d than they 

When worn with sickness oft hast thou 

With health renew d my face 
And when in sin an^ sorrow sunk 

Pteviv d my soul with grace 

Thy bounteous hand with worldly bli;«§ 

Has made my cup run o er 
And in a kind and faithful friend 

Has doubled all my store 

Ten thousand thousand precious giR« 

My daily thanks employ 
Nor is the least a cheerful heart 

That tastes those gifts with joy 

Through every period of my life 

Thy goodness 1 11 pursue 
And after death in distant worlds 

The glorious theme renew 

When nature fails and day and nighl 

Divide thy works no more 
My ever grateful heart O Lord 

Thy mercy shall adore 

Through all eternity to thee 

A joyful song 1 11 raise 
For O eternity s loo short 

To utter all thy praise 

Ihe Foyage of life 

Self flatter d unexpenenc d high in hope 
When young with sanguine cheer and streamer 
, We cut our cable launch into the world 
And fondlv dream each wind and star cur fneud 



138 EXERcisLS. {Promxscuoui 

All in some darling enterprise embark d 

But where is he can fathom its event 

Amid a multitude of artless hands 

Ruin s sure perquisite her lawful prize 

Some steer aright but the black blast blows hard 

And puffs them wide of hope With hearts cf proof 

Full against wind and tide some win their way 

And when strong effort has deserv d the port 

And tugg d it into view tis won tis lost 

Though strong their oar still stronger is their fate 

They strike and while they triumph they expire 

In stress of weather most some sink outright 

O er them and o er their names the billows close 

To morrow knows not they wxre ever born 

Others a short memorial leave behind 

Like a flag floating when the bark s ingulf d 

It floats a moment and is seen no more 

One Caf^sar lives a thousand are forgot 

Howfe-U) favour d by ev ry element 

With swelling sails make good the promis d port 

With all their wishes freighted Yet evn these 

Freighted with all their wishes soon complain 

Free from misfortune not from nature free 

They still are men and when is man secure 

As fatal tune as storm The rush of years 

Beats down their strength their numberless escape! 

In ruin end and now their proud success 

But plants new terrors on the victor s brow 

What pain to quit the world just made their own 

Thtfir nests so deeply down d and built so high 

Too low they build who build beneath the stars 



PART. V. 

EXERCISES TO PROMOTE PERSPICUOUS AND 
ACCURATE WRITING. 

First, with respect to single words and phrases* 



CHAP. I. 

Containing violations of the Rules q/" Purity. 

Grammar, p. 250. Key, p. 110. 

We should be employed dailily in doing good* 

It irks me to see so perverse a disposition. 

I wot not who has done this thing. 

He is no way thy inferior; and, in this instance 
ts no ways to blame. 

The assistance was welcome, and timelily afforded. 

For want of employment, he streamed idly about 
the fields. 

We ought to live soberly, righteously, and godlily 
in the world. 

He was long indisposed, and at length died oi the 
hyp. 

That word follows the general rule, and takes the 
penult accent. 

He was an extra genius, and attracted much at- 
tention. 

The nauteur of Florio was very disgracious, and 
iisgusted both his friends and strangers. 

He charged me with want of resolution, in the 
«rhich he was greatly mistaken. 
' They have manifested great candidress mall the 
transaction. 



IK) EXERCISES. (Purity 

The naturalness of the thought greatly recom 
mended it. ♦ 

The importance, as well as the authenticalness o{ 
the books, has been clearly displayed. 

It is difficult to discover the spirit and intendment 
of some laws. 

The disposition which he exhibited, was both un 
natural and incomfortable. 

His natural severity rendered him a very impopu- 
lar speaker. 

The disquietness of his mind, made his station and 
wealth far from being enviable. 

I received the gift with pleasure, but I shall now 
gladlier resign it. 

These are the things highliest important to the 
growing age. 

It grieveth me to look over so many blank leaves, 
in the book of my life. 

It repenteth me that I have so long walked m the 
paths of folly. 

Methinks I am not mistaken in an opinion, which 
1 have so well considered. 

They thought it an important subject, and the 
question was strenuously debated pro and con. 

Thy speech bewrayelh tliee ; for thou art a Ga- 
lilean. 

Let us not give too hasty credit to stories which 
. may injure our neighbour : peradventure they are 
the offspring of calumny, or misapprehension. 

The gardens were void of simplicity and elegance 
^nc] exhibited much that was glaring and bizarre. 



Fropneiy.) r£RSPiruiTl?, ^S^c. 141 

c:hap. H. 

Containing violations of the Riues o/" Propriety. 
Grammar, p. 251. Key, p. 112 

SECT. I. 

Avoid lozu expressions. 

I HAD as lief do it myself, as persuade anothet 
to do it. 

Of the justness of his measures he convinced his 
opponent by dint of argument. 

'He is not a Avhit better than those whom he so h- 
erally condemns. 

He stands upon security, and will not lioerate hin: 
'ill it-be obtnined. 

The meaning of the phrase, as 1 take it, is very 
different from the common acceptation. 

The favourable moment should be embraced ; for 
he does not hold long in one mind. 

He exposed himself so much amongst the people, 
that he had like to have gotten o^ne or two broken 
heads. 

He was very dexterous in smelling out the views 
and designs of others. 

If his education was but a littic taken care o*, ne 
might be very useful amongst his neighbours. 

He might have perceived, with half an eye, the 
difficulties to v/hich his conduct exposed him. 

If I happen to have a little leisure upon my harrds 
lO-morrow, I intend to pay them a short visit. 

This performance is much at one wnth the other. 

The scene was new, and he was seized with won 
erment at all he saw. 

O 



149 EXERCISES. {Proprietjf. 

SECT. II. 

Supply words that are wanting. 
Grammar, p. 252. Key, p. 112. 

Let us consider the works of nature and art, with 
proper attention. 

He IS engaged in a treatise on the interests of the 
soul and body. 

Some productions of nature rise in value, accord- 
ing as they more or less resemble those of art. 

The Latin tongue, in its purity, was never in this 
island. 

For some centuries, there was a constant inter 
course between France and Englaiid, by the domi 
nions we possessed there, and the conquests we 
made. 

He is impressed with a true sense of that func- 
tion, when chosen from a regard to the interests of 
piety and virtue. 

The wise and foolish, the virtuous and the vile, 
the learned and ignorant, the temperate and pro- 
fligate, must often, like the wheat and tares, be 
blended together. 

SECT. m. 

^n the same sentence, be careful not to use the same 
word too frequently^ nor in different senses. 

Grammar, p. 252. Key, p. 1 13. 

An cioquent speaker may give more, but canno 
give more convincing arguments, than this plain mar 
olFered. 

They were persons of very moderate intellects, 
even before they were impaired by their passions. 

True wit is nature dressed to advantage ; and yet 
some works have more wit than does them good. 

The sharks, who prey upon the inadvertency of 
yaung heirs, a e more pardonable than those, wlio 



trespass upon the good opinion of those, who treat 
them with great confidence and respect. 

Honour teaches us properly to respect ourselvei, 
and to violate no right or privilege of our neigh- 
bour: it leads us to support the feeble, to relieve 
the distressed, and to scorn to be governed by de- 
grading and injurious passions : and yet we see 
honour is the motive which urges the destroyer to 
take the life of his friend. 

He will be always with you to support and com- 
fort you, and in some measure to succeed your la- 
bours ; and he will also be with all his faithful mi* 
nisters, who shall succeed you in his service. 

SECT. IV. 

Avoid the injudicious use of technical terms,-'' 

Grammar, p. 253. Key, p. 114. 

Most of our hands were asleep in their births, 
when the vessel shipped a sea, that carried away our 
pinnace and binnacle. Our dead-lights were in, or 
we should have filled. The mainmast was so 
sprung, that we were obliged to fish it, and bear 
away for Lisbon. 

The book is very neatly printed : the Scale-board- 
ing is ample and regular, and the register exact. 

♦ The examples under thi5 section, and perhaps a few others in 
different parts of the book, may be too difficult for learners to cor- 
rect w ithout assistance ; but as some illustration of the rules to 
which they relate, was requisite, they could not properly be omit- 
ted. By an attentive perusal of them, and a subseqaent application 
to -Le Teacher, or to t. e Key, the scholar will perceive tiie nature 
of the nile» and the mode in which similar errors may be rectified 



144 EXERCISES. (Propriety 

SECT V. 

Avoid equivocal or ambiguous words. 
Grammar, p. 253. Key, p. 114. 

When our frierdship is considered, how is it pos« 
tible that I should not grieve for his loss ? 

The eagle killed the hen, and eat her in her cwn 
nest. 

It may be justly said, that no laws are better than 
the English. 

The pretenders to polish and refine the Englisn 
language, have chiefly multiplied abuses and absurd*- 
ities. 

The English adventurers, instead of reclaiming 
the natives from their uncultivated manners, were 
gradually assimilated to the ancient inhabitants, and 
degenerated from the customs of their own nation. 

It has been said, that not only Jesuits can equi- 
vocate. 

You will not think that these people, when in- 
jured, have the least right to our protection. 

Solomon the son of David, who built the temple 
ot Jerusalem, was the richest monarch that reigned 
over the Jewish people. 

Solomon the son of David, who was i)ersecuted 
by Saul, was the richest monarch of the Jews. 

It is certain that all words which are signs oi 
complex ideas, may furnish matter of mistake and 
cavil. 

l.isias promised to his father, never to abandon 
his friends. 

The Divine Being heapeth favours on his ser- 
vants, ever liberal and faithful. 

Every well instructed scribe, is like a householder, 
who bringeth out of his treasure things new and old. 

He was willing to spend a hundred or Iv/o pounds 
rather than be enslaved. 

Drycjcn makes a very handsome observation, on 



f i prteijf.) pBRSFicuiTY, &c. 14o 

Ovid^g writing a letter from Dido to ^neas, ?u tlue 
following words. 

Imprudent associations disqualify us for the iii^ 
itruction or reproof of others. 

SECT. VI. 

d^aid unintelligible, and inconsistent ivords and 
phrases. 

Grammar, p. 253. Key, p. 116. 

I SELDOM see a noble building, or any great piece 
of magnificence and pomp, but I think, how little is- 
all this to satisfy the ambition, or to fill the idea, oi 
an immortal soul. 

A poet, speaking of the universal deluge, saysf: 

Yet when that flood in its own d^pth was drown'd, 
It left behind it false and slippery ground. 

The author of the Spectator says, that a man is 
not qualified for a bust, who has not a good deal oi 
wit and vivacity, even in the ridiculous side of his 
character. 

And Bezaleel made the laver of brass, ard the 
foot of it of brass, of the looking-glasses of the 
iromen. 

And, in the lowest deep, a lower deep 
Still threatening to devour me, opens wide. 

SECT. VIL 

Avoid all such words and phrases, as are not adapf^ 
td to the ideas you mean to communicate ; oi which 
art less significant than others^ of those ideas 

Grammar, p. 256. Key, p. il6. 

No less than two hundred scholars have be^nt 
'^ticated in that school. 

TKe attempt, however laudable, was found 6# 
to^^iactjcable. 



f4jS ElERCiSESe. {Propritif 

He is our mutual benefactor, and deserves our 
respect and obedience. 

Vivacity is often promoted, by presenting a sen- 
i^ible object to the mind, instead of an intelHgible 
one. ^ 

They broke down the banks, and the country was 
soon overflown. 

The garment was decently former?; ^*^d sown very 
neatly. 

The house is a cold one, for it has a north ex- 
position. 

The proposition, for each of us to relinquish some* 
thing, was compli>d with, and produced a cordial 
i*©concilement. 

Though learn'dj well bred ; and though well bred, 

sincere ; 
Modestly bold, and humanly severe. 

A ft)p is a risible character, in every one's view 
but his own. 

An action that excites laughter, without any mix- 
ture of contempt, may be called a ridiculous action* 

It is difficult for him to speak three sentences to- 
gether*. 

By this expression, I do not intend what some 
persons annex to it. 

The negligence of timely precaution was theciiusf 
of this great loss* 

All the sophism which has been employed, can 
not obscure so plain a truth. 

Disputing s!iouId always be so managed, as to re 
member that the only end of it is truth. 

My friend was so ill that he could not set up at all; 
Dut was obliged to lay continually in bed. 

A certain prince, it is said, when he invaded the 
Egyptians, placed, in the front of his army, a nnm 
ber of cats and other animals, which were worship- 
tcl by those people. A reverence for these phan 



Propriety.) perspicuity, &c. 147 

toms, made the Egyptians He down therr arms, and 
become an easy conquest. 

The presence of the Deity, and the interest such 
an august cause is supposed to take in our concerns, 
is a source of consolation. 

And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of 
the hall, and were set down together, Peter set 
down among them. 

By the slavish disposition of the senate and peo- 
ple of Rome, under the emperors, the wit and elo- 
quence of the age were wholly turned into pane- 
gyric. 

The refreshment came in seasonably, before they 
were laid down to rest. 

We speak that we do know, and testify that we 
have seen. 

They shall flee as the eagle that hasteth to eat. 

The wicked fly when no man pursueth : but the 
righteous are bold as a lion, 

A creature of a more exalted kind 

Was wanting yet, and then was man design'd. 

He died with violence ; for he was killed by a 
sword. 

fie had scarcely taken the medicine, than he be- 
gan to feel himself relieved. 

' No place and no object appear to him void of 
beauty. 

When we fall into a person^s conversation, the 
first thing we should consider, is, the intention of it^ 

Galileo discovered the telescope ; Hervey invent- 
ed the circulation of the blood. 

Philip found an obstacle to the managing of the 
Athenians, from the nature of their dispositions ; but 
the eloquence of Demosth-enes was the greatest dif- 
ficulty in his designs. 

A hermit is rigorous in his life ; a judge, austere 
m his sentences. 



1*8 EXEiicrSEd*. (jPr«ci5idi§ 

A candid man avows his mistake, and k forgiven 
a patriot acknowledges bis opposition to a bad mi- 
fiister, and is applauded. 

We have enlarged our family and expenses ; and 
increased our garden and fruit orchard. 

By proper reflection, we may be taught to mend 
what i^ erroneous and defective. 

The good man is not overcome by disappointment, 
when that which is mortal passes away ; when thai 
which is mutable, dies; and when that which he 
knew to be transient, begins to change. 



CHAP. in. 

Containing violations of the Rules of Precisiort*> 
Grammar, p. 257. Key, p. 1 1^. 

This great politician desisted from, and re» 
nounced his designs, when he found them impraC' 
ticable. 

He was of so high and independent a spirit, that 
he abhorred and detested being in debt. 

Though raised to an exalted station, she was a 
pattern of piety, virtue, and religion. 

The human body may be divided into the head; 
trunk, limbs, and vitals. 

His end soon approached , and he died with great 
courage and fortitude. 

He was a man of so much pride and vanity, that 
he despised the sentiments of others. 

Poverty induces and cherishes dependence ; and 
dependence strengthens and increases corruption. 

Th^s man, on all occasions, treated his infeiu i^ 
W.th great haughtiness and disdain. 

There can be no regularity or order in the i}i^ 
tod conduct of that man, who does not g|v€ ars^ 



Precision.) perspicuity, &c. i4S 

allot a d-uc share of his time^ to retirement and re- 
flecfion. 

Such equivocal and ambiguous expressions^ mark 
a formed intention to deceive and abuse us. 

His cheerful, happy temper, remote from discon- 
tent, keeps up a kind of daylight in his mind, ex* 
eludes every gloomy prospect, and fills it ^ith 
Steady and perpetual serenity. 



*S0 lexjfcRClsHs* (Chameii. 



Secondly. Exercises to promote perspicuity and 
accuracy, with respect to the construction of Sen- 
tences* 



CHAP. I, 

Coniaining sentences in which the Rules of Clearnesf 

are violated. 

Grammar, p. 263. Key, p. 120. 

SECT. L 
In the position of Adverbs* 

ifENCE the impossibility appears, that ati uJideN 
taking managed so, should prove successful. 

May not we here say with the poetj that "virtue 
is its own reward?" 

Had he died before, would not then this art 
have been wholly unknown ? 

Not to exasperate him, 1 only spoke a very few 
words. 

The works of art receive a great advantage from 
the resemblance which they have to those of nature, 
because here the similitude is not only pleasant, 
but the pattern is perfect. 

It may be proper to give some account bf those 
practices, anciently used on such occasions, and 
aniy discontinued through the neglect and dege- 
neracy of later times. 

Sixtus the fourth was, if I mistake not, a great 
collector of books at least. 

If Louis XIV. was not the greatest king, he wai 
the best actor of majesty, at least, Uvat ever filled 
a throne. 



Cteamess.) perspicuity, &c- 111 

These forms of conversation, by degrees multi* 
plied and grew troublesome. 

Nor does this false modesty expose us only to 
8uch actions as are indiscreet, but very often to such 
as are highly criminal. 

By greatness, I do not only mean the bulk of any 
single object, but the largeness of a whole view. 

I was engaged formerly in that business, but I 
never shall be again concerned in it. 

We do those things frequently, which we repent 
of afterwards. 

By doing the same thing, it often becomes ha* 
bitual. 

Most nations, not even excepting the Jews, were 
prone to idolatry. 

Raised to greatness without merit, he employed 
his power for the gratification solely of his passions* 

SECT. II. 

/n the position of circumstances, and of particular 

members* 

Grammar, p. 263. Key, p. 121. 

The embarrassments of the artificers, rendered 
the progrjss very slow of the work. 

He found the place replete with wonders, of 
which he proposed to solace himself with the con- 
templation, if he should never be able to accomplish 
lis fiio;ht. 

rhey are now engaged in a study, of which th*"*y 
lave long wished to know the usefulness. j 

This was an undertaking, which, in the execution^. 

Droved as impracticable, as had turned out every 

Other of their pernicious, yet abortive schemes. 

,^ He thought that the presbyters would soon be* 

'tome more dangerous to the magistrates, than had 

'ver been the prelatic^l clergy. 

Frederick, seeing it was impossible to trust, vriili 



152 EXERCISES^ {Clearntss* 

safety, his life in their hands, was obliged to take 
the Mahometans for his guard. 

The emperor refused to convert at once, the truce 
into a definitive treaty. 

However, the miserable remains were, in the 
night, taken down. 

I have settled the meaning of those pleasures of 
the imagination, which are the subject of my pre- 
sent undertaking, by way of introduction, in this 
paper ; and endeavoured to recommend the pursuit 
of those pleasures to my readers, by several con- 
siderations : I shall examine the several sources 
from whence these pleasures are derived, in my 
next paper. 

Sir Francis Bacon, in his Essay upon Health, has 
not thought it improper to prescribe to his reader a 
poem, or a prospect, where he particularly dissuades 
him from knotty and subtle disquisitions ; and ad 
vises him to pursue studies that fill the mind with 
splendid and illustrious objects, as history, poetry, 
and contemplations of nature. 

If the English reader would see the notion ex- 
plained at large, he may find u in Locke-s Essay on 
the Human Understanding. 

Fields of corn form a pleasant prospect; and if 
the walks were a litde taken care of" that he between 
them, they would display neatness, regularity, and 
elegance. 

Though religion will indeed bring us under some 
restraints, they are very tolerable, and not x)nly so, 
but desirable on the whole. 

I have confined myself to those methods for the 
advancement of piety, which are in the power of a 
prince, limited like ours, by a strict execution of the 
laws. 

This morning, when one of the gay females was 
looking over some hoods and ribands, brought by her 



Cteamtss^) perspicuitv, &lc^ 153 

tirewoman, with great care and diligence,! employed 
no less in examing the box which contained them. 

Since it is necessary that there should be a perpe 
tual inteiv,ourse of buying and selling, and dealing 
upon credit, where fraud is permitted or connived ai, 
or has no law to punish it, the honest dealer is often 
undone, and the knave gets the advantage. 

Though energetic brevity is not adapted alike to 
^very subject, we ought to avoid its contrary, on 
every occasion, a languid redundancy of words. It 
is proper to be copious sometimes, but never to be 
verbose. 

A monarchy, limited like ours, may be placed, for 
aught I know, as it has been often represented, jus* 
in the middle point, from whence a deviation leads^ 
on the one hand, to tyranny, and, on the other, to 
anarchy. 

Plaving alirady shown liow the fancy is affected 
by the v/orks of nature, and afterwards considered, 
in general, both the works of nature and of art, how 
they mutually assist and complete each other, in 
forming such scenes and prospects as are most apt 
(o delight the miiid of the beholders ; I shall in this 
ppper throw together some reflections, &c. 

Let but one great, brave, disinterested, active maa 
arise, and he will be received, venerated, and fol 
lowed. 

Ambition creates seditions, wars, discords, hatrea, 
an.l shiness. 

The scribes made it their profession to teach aiKl 
fo study the law of Mosps. 

Sloth pours upon us a deluge of crimes and evils, 

d saps the foundation of every virtue. 

The ancient laws of Rome were so far from suf" 
fering a Roman citizen to be put to death, that they 
.would not allow him to be bound, or even to b<» 
srhipped. 



ib4 EXERCISES. (Clearness. 

His labours to acquire knowledge have been 
productive of great satisfaction and success. 

He was a man of the greatest prudence, virtue, 
justice, and modesty. 

His favour or disapprobation was governed by 
the failure or success of an enterprise. 

He did every thing in his power to serve his 
benefactor ; and iKid a grateful sense of the benefits 
received. 

Many persons give evident proof, that either 
they do not feel the power of the principles of re- 
ligion, or that they do not believe them. 

As the guilt of an officer will be greater than that 
of a common servant, if he prove negligent ; so the 
reward of his fidelity will proportionably be 
greater. 

The comfort annexed to goodness is the pious 
mari's strength. It inspires his zeah It attaches 
his heart to religion. It accelerates his progress; 
and supports his constancy. 

SECT. III. 

In the dispcsition of the relative pronouns who, 
which, v/hai, vrliose, and of all those particles^ which 
express the connexion of the parts of speech zvith one 
another. 

Grammar, p. 266. Key, p. 124. 

These are the master's rules, who must be obeyed. 

They attacked Northumberland's house, whom 
they put to death. 

He laboured to involve his minister in ruin, w^ho 
had been the author of it. 

It is true what he says, but it is not applicabte 
to the point. 

The French marched precipitately as to an assured 
victory : whereas the Elnglish advanced very sip wly 
and discharged such flights of arrows, as did great 
execution. When they drew near the archers, per- 
ceiving that they were out of breath, they charged 
them with great vigour. 



Cieanuss.) perspicuity, &c. 155 

He was taking a view, from a window, of the 
cathedral in Lichfield, where a party of the royalists 
had fortified themselves. 

We no where meet with a more splendid or pleas- 
ing show in nature, than what appears in the heavens 
at the rising and setting of the sun, which is wholly 
made up of those different stains of light, that show 
themselves in clouds of a different situation. 

There Vv^ill be found a round million of creatures 
in human figure, throughout this kingdom, whose 
whole subsistence, &c. 

It is the custom of the Mahometans, if they see 
any printed or written paper upon the ground, to 
take it up, and lay it aside carefully, as not knowing 
but it may contain sonae piece of their Alcoran. 

The lavvs of nature are, truly, v/hat Lord Bacon 
styles his aphorisms, laws of laws. Civil laws are 
always imperfect, and often false deductions from 
them, or applications of them ; nay, they stand, in 
many instances, in direct opposition to them* 

It has not a word, says Pope, but what the author 
religiously thinks in it. 

Many act so directly contrary to this method, that 
from a habit of saving time and paper, which they 
acquired at the university, they write in so diminu- 
tive a manner, that they can hardly read what they 
ftave written. 

Thus I have fairly given you my own opinion, as 
well as that of a great majority of both houses here, 
relating to this weighty affair; upon which 1 am 
confident you may securely reckon. 

If v'e trace a youth from the earliest period of 
hfe, wh-> has been well educated, we shall perceive 
the wisdom of the maxims here recommended* 



1 



It£ EXSIRCISES. (£7/U^ 



CHAP. IL 

Cimia%nmg sentences in which the rules of Unity an 

violated. 

Grammar, p. 257. Key, p. 126. 

SECT. I. 

l}uring the course of the sentence, the scene should b 
changed as little as possible* 

A SHORT time after this injury, he came to him 
self; and the next day, they put him on board a ship 
tvh^ch conveyed him first to Corinth, and thence U 
the island of iEgina. 

The Britons, daily harassed by cruel inroads from 
the Picts, were forced to cal! in the Saxons for their 
defence ; who consequently reduced the greater 
part of the island to their own power ; drove the 
Britons into the most remote and mountainous parts ; 
and the rest of the country, in customs, religion, 
and language, became wholly Saxons. 

By eagerness of temper, and precipitancy of indul- 
gence, men forfeit all the advantages which patience 
would have procured ; and, by this m.eans, the oppo- 
s^ite evils are incurred to their full extent. 

This prostitution of praise does not only affect 
the gross of mankind, who take their notion of cha- 
racters from the learned; but also ihe better sort must, 
by this means, lose some part at least of their desire 
of fame, when they find it promiscuously bestowed 
en the meritorious and undeserving. 

All the precautions of prudence, moderation, and 
condescension, which Eumenes employed, were in- 
capable of mollifying the hearts of those barbarians, 
and of extinguishing their jealousy ; and he must 
have renounced his merit and /irtue which occa- 
sioned it, to have been capable of appeasing themt 



Unity.) PERSPICUITY, &CC. W^ 

He who performs every emplovn-^nt In i^ dti 
place and season, suff^*'-: r-a part of time to e%cZi^ 
without proti^ • :,,;d mis hi^ days bi^'CC.Tie multiplied ; 
and ir^A oS: ii^e is (^r^y^^c^ m little space. 

Dt.-^fe^'> ^""'* jj-ieasure usher in temptation, and the 
growth of disorderly passions is forwarded. 

SECT. IL 

JVe should never crowd into one sentence^ thingt 
which have so little connexion, that they could bear 
to be divided into two or three sentences. 

Grammar, p. 268. Key, p. 127. 

The notions of lord Sunderland were always 
good ; but he was a man of great expense. 

In this uneasy state, both of his public and pri- 
vate life, Cicero was oppressed by a new and deep 
affliction, the death of his beloved daughter Tullia ; 
which happened soon after her divorce from Dola- 
oella ; whose manners and humours were entirely 
iisagreeable to her. 

The sun approaching melts the snow, and breaks 
the icy fetters of the main, where yast sea-monsters 
pierce through floating islands, with arms which can 
withstand the crystal rock ; . whilst others, that of 
themselves seem great as islands, are, by their bulk 
alone, armed against all but man, whose superiority 
over creatures of such stupendous size and force, 
should make him mindful of his privilege of reason ; 
ind force him humbly to adore the great Composer 
of these wondrous frames, and the Author of his 
own superior wisdom. 

I single Strada out amoiig the moderns, because 
he had the foolish presumption to censure Tacitus^, 
and to write history himself; and my friend will for- 
give this short excursion in honour of a favourite] 
writer. 

Boast not thyself of to-mcrrow ; thou know^t^ 



t 

^40 " iSXERCISES. (i^ti^ 

not what a day may bring forth : and, for the same 
Fea^ion, despairnot of to-morrow • for it may bring 
forth good as well as evil ; which is a ground for 
not vexing thyself with imaginary fears ; for the irn* 
pending black cloud, which is regarded with so 
much dread, may pass by harmless; or thodgh ii 
should discharge the storm, yet before it breaks, 
thou mayest be lodged la that lowly mansion whicfe 
m storms ever touch* 

SECT. III. 

We should keep clear of all unnecessary parenthestis^ 
Gramrcars p. \270. Key, p. 128. 

DisAPPOixTMF.NTS will oftcn happen to the best 
and wisest men, (not through any iniprudence of 
theirs, nor even through the malice or ill design of 
others : but merely in conseijuence of some of those 
cross incidents of life which could not be rore:S6en,) 
and sometimes tc the wi.>est and best concerted 
plan-*. 

Without some degree of patience exercised under 
injuries, (as otrencesan<l retaliations would succeed 
to one another in endless train,) human hie would 
be rendered a state of perpetual hostdity. 

Never delay till to-morrow, (for to-morrow is nol 
yqurs ; and though you slioulJ live to enjoy it, you. 
Delist not overload it with a harden not iis own,) 
what reason and conscience tell you ought to be per* 
formed to-day. 

We must not imagine that there is, in true relt- 
gion, any thing which overcasts the mind with sul* 
len gloom and melancholy austerity, (for fal?e ideas 
may be entertained of religion, as false and impeF* 
feet conceptions of vu-fue have often prevailed m 
die world,) or which derogates from that esteenr 
nrhich men arc generally disposed to yield to exern? 
I^arv vii^tues^ 



hrengik.) PiRSPicuiTT, &g. ^ t$^ 

CHAP. IIIv 

Containing sentences, in which the rules for promoting 
the Strength of a sentence are violated^ 

Grammar, p. 271. Key, p. 129. 

SECT. I. 

7%e frst rule for promoting the strength of a 
stntence, isy to prune it of all redundant wards and 
nembers. 

It is six months ago, since I paid a visit to my re- 
tations. 

Suspend your censure so long, till your judgment 
on the subject can be wisely formed. 

The reason why he acted in the manner he did^ 
was not fully explained. 

If I were to give a reason for their looking so 
well, it would be because they rise early. 

If I mistake not, I think he is improved, both in 
knowli^dge and behaviour. 

Those two boys appear to be both equal in ca* 
oacity. 

Whenever he sees me, he always inquires coii- 
terning his friends. 

The reason of his conduct will be accounted for 
m the conclusion of this narrative. 

I hope this is the last time that I shall ever act 
%o imprudently. 

The reason of his sudden departure, was on a^» 
SDunt of the case not admitting of delay. 

The people gained nothing farther by this^ step 
but only to suspend their misery. 

I have here supposed that the reader is acquainted 
witlithat greatmodern discovery, which is at present 



Ho E^^finciSErs. (Strength 

universally acknowledged by all the inquirers ir» 
to natural philosophy. 

There are few words in the English language 
which are employed in a more loose and uncireum 
scribed sense, than those of the fancy and the ima- 
gination. 

I intend to make use of these words in the thread 
of my following speculations, that the reader may 
conceive rightly what is the subject upon which 
I proceed. 

Commend me to an argument that, like a flail, 
there is no fence against it. 

How many are there, by whom these tidings of 
good news were never heard ! 

These points have been illustrated in so pJain and 
evident a manner, that the perusal of the book has 
given me pleasure and satisfection. 

However clear and obvious the conduct which he 
ought to have pursued, he had not courage and re- 
solution to set about it. 

I was much moved on this occasion, and left the 
place full of a great many serious reflections. 

They are of those that rebel against the Light 
they know not the ways thereof, nor aoide in the 
paths thereof. 

This measure may afford some profit, and furnish 
some amusement. 

By a multiplicity and variety of words, the thoughts 
and sentiments are not set off and accommodated • 
but like David dressed out and equipped in Saul-s 
armour, they are encumbered and oppressed. 

Although he was closely occupied wil^ the affairs 
of the nation, nevertheless he did not neglect tn® 
concerns of his friends. 

Whereas, on the other hand, supposmg that se- 
d'ecy had been enjoined, his conduct was very cjal! 



Sirenglh.) perspicuity, <fec. l4l 

Less capacity is required for this business, but 
more time is necessary. 

He did not mention Leonora, nor that her father 
was dead. 

The combatants encountered each other with such 
rage, that being eager only to assail, and thought- 
less of making any defence, they both fell dead up- 
on the field together. 

I shall, in tne first place, begin with remarking 
the defects, and shall then proceed afterwards to 
describe the excellencies, of this plan of education. 

Numberless orders of beings^ which are to us un* 
known, people the wide extent of the universe. 

His extraordinary beauty was such-th^t it struck 
observers with admiration. 

Thought and language act and re-act upon each 
other mutually. 

Their interests were dependent upon, and insepa-» 
rably connected with each other. 

While you employ a.j the circumspecticn and 
vigilance which reasor. <:an suggest, let your prayers, 
at the same time, continually asc^end to heaven for 
support and aid. 

SECT. IL 

The second rule for promoting the strength of a 
ientence^ is^ to attend particularly to the use of co» 
pulatives, relatives, and all the particles employed for 
transition and connexion, 

Gramrrrary p. 274. Key, p. 131. 

The enemy said, I will pursue, and I will over- 
take, and I will divide the spoiL 

While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest; 
cold, heat, summer, winter, day and n%ht, shall not 
.cease. 

A man should endeavour to makr the sphere oe 
bis innocent plea^ifes^ as wijde as jossLbk,. thai hm 



w 



162 EXERCISES. {Strength. 

may retire into them with safety, and find in thero 
such satisfaction as a wise man would not blush to 
take. Of this nature are those of imagination* 

The army was composed of Grecians, CarianSj 
Lycians, Pamphylians, and Phrygians. 

The body of this anima! was strong, and propor- 
tionable^ and beaiitifu]. 

There is nothing which promotes knowledge more 
thp'' cidy application, and a habit of observation* 

^nough virtue borrou^s no assistance from, yet if 
may often be accompanied by, the advantages of 
fortune. 

The knowledge he has acquired, and the habits oi 
application he possesses, will probably render him 
very useful. 

Their idleness, and their luxury and pleasures, 
their criminal deeds, and their immoderate passions,, 
and their timidity and baseness of mind, have de- 
lected them to such a degree, as to make them wea 
ry cf life. 

I was greatly affected, insomuch that I was obligee^ 
to leave the place, notwithstanding that my as- 
sistance has been pressingly solicited. 

I strenuously opposed those measures, and it W£4J 
not in my power to prevent them. 

1 yielded to his solicitations, whilst I perceiveJ 
the necessity of doing so. 

For the wisest purposes, Providence has designed 
our state to be chequered with pleasure and,paia. 
In this manner let us receive it, and make the 
best of what is apy)ointed to be our lot. 

In the time of prosperity, he had stored his mind 
with useful knowledge, with good principles, and 
virtuous dispositions. And therefore they remain 
entire, when the days of trouble come. 

He had made considerable advances in knowledge, 
but he was very young, and laboured under several 
disadvantages.. 



1^ X^lgth.) PERSPICUITF, &C. 103 

SECT. III. 

Tke third rule for promoting the strnngh of a sen* 
icnse, is^ to dispose of the capital word, or zoords^ so 
(hat they may make the greatest impression. 
Grammar, p. 277. Key, p. 132. 

I HAVE considered the subject with a good deal 
•f attention, upon which I was desired to communi- 
cate my thoughts. 

Whether a choice altogether unexceptionable has, 
m any country, been made, seems doubtful. 

Let us endeavour to establish to ourselves an in- 
terest in Him, who holds the reins of the whole crea 
tion in his hands. 

Virgil, who has cast the whole system of platonic 
philosophy, so far as it relates to the soul of man, 
mto beautiful allegories, in the sixth book of his 
Eneid, gives us the punishment, &c. 

And Philip the fourth was obliged, at last, to con- 
clude a peace, on terms repugnant to his inclmation, 
to that of his people, to the interest of Spain, and to 
that of all Europe, in the Pyrenean ti'eaty. 

It appears that there are, by a late calculation, 
upwards of fifteen millions of inhabitants, in Great 
Britain and Ireland. 

And although persons of a virtuous and learned 
education, may be, and too often are, drawn by the 
temptations of youth, and the opportunities of a large 
fortune, into some irregularities, when they come 
forward into the great world, it is ever with reluc 
tance and compunction of mind, because their bias 
to virtue still continues. 

Were instruction an essential circumstance in epic 
poetryj I doubt whether a single instance could bt 
given of this species of composition, in any Ian 
guage. 

Some of our most eminent writers have made use 
of this platonic notion, as far as it regards the sub 



164 jfiXERCiSES. {Strength. 

sistence of our affections after death, with great 
beauty and strength of reason. 

Men of the best sense have been touched, more 
or less, with these groundless horrors and presages 
of futurity, upon surveying the most indifferent 
works of nature. 

He that cometh in the name of the Lordj is 
blessed. 

Every one that puts on the appearance of good- 
ness, is not good. 

And Elias with Moses appeared to them. 

Where are your fafhers ? and do the prophets live 
for ever ? 

We came to our journey's end at last with no 
small difficulty, after much fatigue, through deep 
roads and bad weather. 

Virgil has justly contested with Homer the praise 
of judgment, but his invention remains yet unri^ 
vailed. 

Let us employ our criticism on ourselves, instead 
of being critics on others. 

Let us implore superior assistance, for enabling us 
to act well our own part, leaving others to be juiged 
by Him who searcheth the heart. 

The vehemence of passion, after it has exercised 
Its tyrannical sway for a while, may subside by 
degrees. 

This fallacious art debars us from enjoymg life 
instead of lengthening it. 

Indulging ourselves in imaginary enjoyments, of- 
ten deprives us of real ones. 

How will that nobleman be able to conduct him- 
self, when reduced lo poverty, who was educated 
only to magnificence and pleasure? 

It is highly proper that a man should be acquainted 
with a variety of things, of which the utility is above 
a child's comprehension : but is it necessary a child 



Strength.) perspicuitv, kc» 165 

should learn every thing it behoves a man to 
know ; or is it even possible ? 

When they fall into sudden difficulties, they arc 
less perplexed than otliers in the like circumstances 
and when they encounter dangers, they are less 
alarmed. 

For all your actions, you must hereafter give an 
account, and particularly for the employments of 
youth. 

SECT. IV. 

The fourth rule for promoting the strength of sen* 
tejices, is, that a weaker assertion or proposition 
should never come after a str&kger one ; and that, 
when our sentence consists of two meiabers, the Conger 
should, generally, he the concluding one. 
Grammar, p. 279. Key, p. 134. 

Charity breathes long suffering to enemies 
courtesy to strangers, habitual kindness towards 
friends. 

Gentleness ought to diffuse itself over our whole 
behaviour, to form our address, and regulate our 
speech. 

The propensity to look forw^ard into life, is too 
often grossly abused, and immoderately indulged. 

The regular tenour of a virtuous and pious life, 
w\\\ prove the best preparation for immortality, fojr 
old age, and death. 

These rules are intended to teach young persons 
tD write with propriety, elegance, and perspicuity. 

Sinful pleasures blast the opening prospects ol 
human felicity, and degrade human honour. 

In tmi state of mind, every employment of life 
becomes an oppressive burden, and every object 
appears gloomy. 

, They wall acquire different views, applying to 
the honourable discharge of the functions of their 
elation, and entering on a virtuous course of acciont 

Q 




166 EXERCISES. (Strength 

By the perpetual course of dissipation, m which 
sensualists are engaged ; by the riotous revel, and 
the m:dnight, or rather morning hours, to which 
they prolong their festivity ; by the excesses which 
they indulge; they debilitate their bodies, cut them- 
selves off from the comforts and duties of life^ and 
wear out their spirits. 

SECT. V. 

ji fifth rule for the strength of sentences^ isy te 
avoid concluding them zvith an adverb, a preposition, 
or any inconsiderable xoord. 

Grammar, p». 280. Key, p. 135. 
W 
By what I have already expressed, the reader 

will perceive the business which I am to proceed 

upon^ 

May the happy message be applied to us, in all 
the virtue, strength, and comfort of it! 

Generosity is a showy virtue, which many persons 
are very fond of. 

These arguments were, without hesitation, and 
with great eagerness, laid hold of. 

It is proper to be long in deliberation, but we 
should speedily execute. 

Form your measures Vv^th prudence ; but ali 
anxiety about the issue di/est yourselves of. 

We are struck, we know not how, with the sym- 
metry of any thing we see ; and immediately ac- 
knowledge the beauty of an object, without in- 
quiring into the particular causes and occasions of it. 

With Cicero's writings, these persons are more 
conversant, than with those of Demosthenes, who, 
jy many degrees, excelled the other : at least, as 
an orator. 

SECT. VI. 
A sixth ruie relating to the strength of a setiienck 



S*rtngth.) PERSPICUITY, &lc. 1(57 

is thaty in the members of a sentence^ where two 
things are compared or contrasted with one another } 
where either a resemblance^ or an opposition, is in- 
tended to be expressed y some resemblance, in the Ian- 
guage and construction, should be preserved. For 
when the things themselves correspond to each other, 
we naturally expect to find a similar correspondence 
in the words 

Grammar, p. 281. Key, p. 136. 

OtR British gardenerSj instead of humouring na- 
ture, love to deviate from it as much as possible. 

I have observed of late the style of soaie great 
ministers, very much to exceed that of any other 
pioductions. 

The old may inform the young ; and the young 
may animate those who are advanced in life. 

The account is generally balanced : for what 
we are losers on the one hand, we gain on the other. 

The laughers will be for those who have most 
wit; the serious part of mankind, for those who 
have most reason on their side. 

If men of eminence are exposed to censure on 
the one hand, they are as much liable to flattery on 
whe other. If they receive reproaches which are 
not due to them, they likewise receive praises which 
they do not deserve. 

He can bribe, but he is not able to seduce. He 
can buy, but he has not the power of gaining. He 
«an lie, but no one is deceived by him. 

He embraced the cause of liberty faintly, and pir- 
sued it without resolution ; he grew tired of it, when 
he had much to hope ; and gave it up, when therr 
was no ground for apprehension. 

There may remain a suspicion that we overrate 
^he greatness of his genius, in the same manner 
as bodies appear more gigantic, on account ol 
dirir being disproponioned and misshapen. 



16fi EXERCISER* (Sirengtrk 

SECT. VII. 

The seventh rule for promoting the strength and 
effect of sentences, is, to attend to the harmony and 
easi^ flora of the rvords and members. 

Grammar, p. 282. Key, p. 136. 

SoBERMiNDEDNESs suits the present statc of man. 

As conventiclers, these people were seized and 
pmi^^hed. 

To use the Divine name customarily, and with- 
out serious consideration, is highly irreverent. 

From the favourableness with which he was at 
first received, great hopes of success were enter- 
tained. 

They conducted themselves wilily, and ensnared 
us before we had tim.e to escape. 

It belongs not to our humble and confined sta- 
tion, to censure, but to adore, submit,, and trust. 

Under all its labours, hope is the mind's solace , 
and the situations which exclude it entirely are few* 

The humbling of those that are mighty, and the 
precipitation of persons who are ambitious, from the 
towering height that they had gained, concern but 
Uttle the bulk of men. 

Tranquillity, regularity, and magnanimity, reside 
with the religious and resigned man. 

Sloth, ease, success, naturally tend to beget vices 
and follies. 

By a cheerful, even, and open temper, he con^ 
ciliated general favour. 

We reached the mansion before noon. It was a 
strong, grand, Gothic house. 

I had a long and perilous journey, but a comfort . 
^h\e companion, who relieved the fatigue of it. 

The speech was introduced by a sensible preaii*- 
ble, which made a favourable impression. 

The commons made an angry remonstrance 
against such an arbitrary requisition. 

The truly illustrious are they wlio do iiOt caurl 



Strength.) perspicuity, 8zc. 16^^ 

the praise of the world, but who perform such ac- 
tions as make them indisputably deserve it. 

By the m.eans of society, our wants come to be 
supplied, and our lives are rendered comfortable, a» 
well as our capacities enlarged, and our vir-uous 
affections called forth into their proper exercise. 

Life cannot but prove vain to such persons as 
affect a disrelish of every pleasure, which is not 
both new and exquisite, measuring their enjoy- 
ments by fashion's standard, and not by what they 
feel themselves ; and thmking that if others do not 
admire their state, they are miserable. 

By experiencing distress, an arrogant insensibility 
of temper is most efieetually corrected, from the 
remembrance of our own sufferings naturally 
prompting us to feel for others in their sufferings : 
and if Providence has favoured us, so as not to 
make us subject in our own lot to much of this kind 
of discipline, we should extract improvement from 
the lot of others that is harder ; and step aside some- 
times from the flowery and smooth paths which it is 
permitted us to walk in, in order to view the toil- 
some march of our fellow-creatures through the 
thorny desert. 

As no one is without his failings, so few want 
good qualities^ 

Providence delivered them up to themselves, and 
ihey tormented themselves. 

From disappointments and trials, we learn the la- 
suflBciency of temporal things to happiness, and tb# 
necessity to goodness.. 



llO EXERCISES*. {Mgitrek 



CHAP. IV. 
histances of an irregular W5e o/* Figures of Speech* 

iramraar, p. 287. Key, p. 138. 

No hum^n iiappiness is so serene as not to cbii 
tain any alloy. 

There is a time when factions, by the vehemence 
of their own fermentations, stun and disable one 
another. 

I intend to make use of these words in the thread 
of my speculations. 

Hope, the balm of life, darts a ray of light through 
the thickest gloom. 

The scheme was highly expensive to him, and 
proved the Charybdis of his estate. 

He was so much skilled in the empire of the oar> 
that few could equal him. 

The death of Cato has rendered the senate an 
orphan. 

Let us be attentive to keep our mouths as with a 
bridle ; and to steer our vessel aright, that we may 
avoid the rocks and shoals, which lie every where 
around us* 

At length Erasmus, that great injnr'd name 
fThe glory of the prie«^thood and the shame,) 
Curb'd the wild torrent of abarb'rous age, 
And drove those holy Vandals off the stage. 

In this our day of proof, our land of hope, 
The good man has his clouds that intervene ^ 
Clouds that may dim his sublunary day, 
But cannot conquer : even the best must own 
Pat4ence and resignation are the columns^ 
Of humap peace on earth. 



^rurts.) PEHSnCUITV^ Szc. 4^ Itl 

On the Tvide sea of letters, 'twas thy boast 
To crowd each sail, and touch at ev'ry coast ; 
From that rich mine how often hast thou brought 
The piyre and precious pearls of splendid thought^ 
How didst thou triumph on that subject tids. 
Till vanity's wild gust, and stormy pride, 
Drove thy strong mind, in evil hour, to split 
Upon the fatal rock of impious wit ! 

Since the time that reason began to bud, and put 
forth her shoots, thought, during our waking hours. 
Cias been active in every breast, without a mo* 
mentis suspension or pause. The current of ideas 
fias been always moving. The wheels of the spiri- 
tual engine have exerted themselves with per* 
petual motion. 

The man who has no rule over his own spirit, 
possesses no antidote against poisons of any sort. 
He lies open to every insurrection of ill-humour, 
and every gale of distress. Whereas he who is 
employed in regulating his mind, is making provi- 
Bion against all the accidents of life. He is erecting 
a fortress into which, in the day of sorrow, he caa 
retreat with satisfaction. 

Tamerlane the Great, writes to Bajazet, emperor 
of the Ottomans, in the following terms — " Where 
}s the monarch who dares resist us ? Where is the 
potentate who does not glory in being numbered 
among our attendants ? As for thee, descended 
from a Turcoman sailor, since the vessel of thy un- 
bounded ambition has been wrecked in the gulf of 
thy self-love, it would be proper that thou shouidst 
lake m the sails of thy temerity, and cast the ancnor 
of repentance in the port of sincerity and justice, 
which is the port of safety ; lest the tempest of our 
vengeance make thee perish in the sea of the puBi^h*- 
%fmt thou des^rvestJ' 



lf$ EXERCISES^ {9\^tiii*% 

It h pleasant to be virtuous anc' good ^ because 
that Is to excel many others : It is pleasaat to grow 
better ; because that is to excel ourselves : It is 
pleasant to command our appetites and passions, 
and to Keep them in due order, within the bounds 
of reason and religion ; because this is empire : 
nay, it is pleasant even to mortify and subdue oiif 
lusts ; because that is victory. 



Promiscuous^) perspicuity, &c. ITJt 



CHAP. V- 

^^olations of the Rules respecting perspicuous and 
accurate wriiing, promiscuously disposed. 

See the Key, p. 141 

SECT. I. 

What is human life to all, but a mixture, with 
various cares and troubles, of some scattered joys 
and pleasures ? 

When favours of every kind are conferred speed- 
fly, they are doubled. 

He will soon weary the company, who is himsell 
wearied. 

He must endure the follies of others, who will 
have their kindness. 

For the last years of man the first raust make pro- 
vision. 

Perpetual light-mindedness must terminate in ig- 
norance. 

In these, and in such like cases, we should^ in our. 
alms, generally suffer none to be witnesses, but Him 
who must see every thing. 

The reason why he is so badly qualified for the 
Dusiness, is because he neglected his studies, and 
oj)portunities of improvement. 

That Plutarch wrote lives of Demosthenes and 
Cicero at Chseronea, it is clear from his own ac- 
count. 

I wish to cultivate your further acquamtance. 

He may probably make the attempt, but he can- 
rot possibly succeed. 

No pains were spared by his tutor, in order to his 
oeing improved in all useful knowledge. 

In no scene of her life w^as ever Mary's address. 
Eiore remarkably displayed. 



1 74 EXERcissSr (^ProtntsctiOUtf, 

This was the cause which first gave rise to such 
a barbarous practice. 

He craftily endeavoured, by a variety of false in- 
sinuations which he made use of, to turn the em- 
peror to his purpose. 

The beauty in the earth equals the grandeur in 
the heavens. 

In health and vigour of body, and in the state of 
worldly fortune, all rejoice. 

What passes in the hearts of men, is generally un- 
known to the public eye. 

Many associations are united by laws the most 
arbitrary. 

These instances may, it is hoped, be sufficient to 
satisfy every reasonable mind. 

By such general and comprehensive rules as this, 
the clearest ideas are conveyed. 

He determined not to comply wuth the proposal, 
except he should receive a more ample compensa- 
tion. 

There jftn be no doubt but that health is prefera- 
ble to riches. 

They declared to their friends, that they believed 
the perusal of such books had ruined their principles. 

John's temper greatly indisposed him for in- 
struction. 

Vegetation is advancing constantly, though no 
eye can trace the steps of its gradation. 

The reason of my consenting to the measur,e, was 
cwing to bis importunity. 

1 conceived a great regard for him, and could not 
but mourn for his loss. 

The officer apprehended him, and confined him 
in his own house. 

Charlotte, the friend of Amelia, to whom no 
one imputed blame, was too prompt in her vindica- 
tion* 



PromtscuoiiSt) perspicuity, &c. 175 

Men who are rich and avaricious, lose themselves 
in a spring which might have cherished all around 
them. 

I should prefer him to be rather of slow parts 
than with a bad disposition. 

As soon as Eugenius undertook the care of a 
parish, it immediately engrossed the whole of his 
attention. 

The plan will at once contribute to general con* 
venience, and add to the beauty and elegance of the 
town. 

Together w^ith the national debt, the greatest na- 
vional advantages are also transmitted to succeeding 
generations. 

Their intimacy had commenced in the happier 
period, perhaps, of their youth and obscurity. 

His subject is precisely of that kind, which a 
daring imagination could alone have adopted. 

This emperor conjured the senate, that the purity 
of his reign might not be stained or contaminated 
by the blood even of a guilty senator. 

It is a happy constitution of mind, to be able to 
view successive objects so steadily, as that the more 
may never prevent us from doing justice to the less 
important. 

This activity drew great numbers of enterprising 
men over to Virginia, who came either in search oi 
fortune or of liberty, which was the only compen- 
sation for the want of it. 

The erroneous judgment of parents, concerning 
Jhe conduct of schoolmasters, has crushed the peace 
dfmany an ingenious man, who engaged in the care 
of youth; and paved the w^ay to the ruin of hopeful 
boys. 

SECT. II. 

Key, p. 143. 

The Greek doubtless is a language which is 
much superior in riches, harmony, and variety, to 
Latin. 



176 fcXERcisEs. {Promiscuous. 

Thoie three great genius's flourished in the snme 
period. 

He has made a judicious adaption of the exam- 
ples of the rule. 

This part of i^nowledge has been always growing, 
and Will do so, till the subject be exhatsted. 

A boy of twelve years old may study ir ese 
lessons. 

The servant produced from his late master an 
undeniable character. 

I am surprised that so great a philosopher as you 
are, should spend your time in the pursuit of such 
chimeras. 

The ends of a divine and buman legislator, are 
vasdy different. 

Scarce had thf* '' Spirit of Laws'' made its ap- 
pearance, than it was attacked. 

His donation was the more acceptable, that it was 
given without solicitation. 

This subject is an unw^elcome intruder, affording 
but an uneasy sensation, and brings with it always 
a mixture of concern and compassion. 

He accordingly draws out his forces, and offers 
battle to Hiero, vv^ho immediately accepted it. 

James laid late in bed yesterday, and this morning 
he lays still later. 

The reason of this strange proceeding, will be ac- 
counted for when I make my defence. 

I have observed him often, and his manner of 
proceeding is thus: he enjoins first silence; and 
then, (fee. 

Having not known, or not considered the subject, 
he made a very crude decision. 

They all were deceived by his fair f retences, and 
they all of them lost their property. 

It is abov^) a year since the time that I left 
school. 



Promiscuous,) PERsricLiTF, Szc. lY*? 

He was guilty of such atrocious conduct, that he 
was deserted by his friends for good and all. 

No other einj^loyment besides a bookseller suited 
.lis inclination. 

Hereby 1 am instructed, and thereby I am ho- 
noured. 

I pleaded my good intention ; and after some 
Hme he assented thereto ; v/hereby I entirely escaped 
all punishment. 

This I am disposed to the rather, that it will serve' 
to illustrate the principles advanced above. 

From what 1 have said, you will perceive readily 
the subject I am to proceed upon. 

These are points too trivial to take notice of. 
Fhey a^e objects 1 am totally unacquainted with. 

The nearer that men approach each other, the 
more numerous the points of contact in which they 
touch, and the greater their pleasures or pains. 

Thus I ha\'e endeavoured to make the subject be 
better understood. 

This is the most useful art of which men are pos- 
sessed. 

The Frenqji writers of sermons study neatness in 
laying donvn their heads. 

There is not any beauty more in one of them 
dian in another. 

SECT. III. 

Key, p. 145. 

Study to unite with firm.ness of principle gentJe^ 
wess of manners, and affable behaviour with untamt- 
en integrity. 

\n that work, we are every now and then inter« 
rupled with unnatural thoughts. 

Ba/iiig one or two expressions, the compositimi 
ts not subject to censure. 

To answer his purpose effectually, he pitciied up- 
oa a vexv movins: story. 

R 



178 EXERGiSEa. {Promise 

I am not able to discover whether these points are 
any how connected. 

These are arguments which cannot be got over 
by all the cavils of infidelity. 

This matter I had a great mind to reply to. 

I hope that I may not be troubled in future, oq 
this, or iany the like occasions. 

It is difficult to- unite together copiousness and 
precision. %, 

Let us consider of the proper means to effect our 
purpose. 

We must pay attention to what goes before and 
immediately follows after. 

The more ^hat this track is pursued, the more 
that eloquence is studied, the more shall we be 
guarded against a false taste. 

True believers of every class and denomination 
on earth, make up the church and people of God. 

This is the sum and substance of that which has 
been said on the subject. 

A perfect union of wit and judgment, is one oi 
the rarest thing-s in the world. 

Praise, like gold and diamonas, owes to its scar 
city only its value. 

Intemperance will make life short and sad, though 
It may fire the spirit for an hour. 

Fromtheir errors of education, all their miseries 
have proceeded. 

Their disinterestedness of conduct produced ge- 
neral admiration. 

I viewed the habitation of my departed friend.™ 
Vefierablc shade! I then gave thee a tear: ac- 
cept now of one cordial drop that falls to thy me 
mory. 

To-day we are here ; to-morrow we are gone. 

This author is more remarkable for strength OJ 
sentiment, than harmonious language. 



lufl 



Promiscuous.) PERSPieuitY, &c. IW 

Many persons are more delighted with correct 
and elegant language, than with the importance ol 
sentiment and accuracy of reasoning. 

I feel myself grateful to my friend, for all the in* 
stances of his kindness, which he has often mani 
fested to me. 

It is not from this world that any source oi 
comfort can arise, to cheer the gloom of the last 
hour, 

SECT. IV. 

Key, p. 147. 

Ct is dangerous for beauty that is mortal, or for 
terrestrial virtue, to be examined by a light that is 
too strong for it. 

Beautiful women possess seldom any great ac- 
com-plishments, because they study behaviour rather 
than solid excellence, for the most part. 

It is to discover the temper of froward children, 
not that of men, far less that of Christians, to fret 
end repine at every disappointment of our wishes. 

It is ordained and decreed by Providence, that 
nothing shall be obtained in our present state, that 
is truly valuable, except it be with difficulty and 
danger. 

Pauses of ease and relaxation, labour necessarily 
requires; and the deliciousness of ease makes us 
fX)mmonly unwilling to return to labour. 

Nothing which is not right can be great ; nothing 
can be suitable to the dignity of the human mind 
which reason condemns. 

We have warm hopes in youth, which are blasted 
f oon by negligence and rashness ; and great designs 
which are defeated by inexperience and ignorance 
of the world. 

The haunts of dissipation, by night and day, open 
' many a wide and inviting gate to the children ol 
idleness and sloth. 

True virtue (as all its parts are connected, piety 



180 EXEitcisE^. {Promxscuouir 

wiih morality, charity with justice, benevolence 
with temperance and fortitude,) must form one 
complete and entire system. 

Dissimulation obscures parts and learning ; de- 
grades the lustre of every accomplishment ; and 
planges us into universal contempt. 

Confident as you now are in your assertions, and 
positive as you are in your opinions, be assured the 
time approaches when things and men will appeal 
in a different light to you. 

In this age of dissipation and luxury in which we 
live, how many avenues are constantly open that 
carry us to the gates of folly ! 

Through extravagance and idleness, and vain in- 
clination of emulating others in the splt^ndid show 
of life, many run into charges exceeding their pro* 
perty. 

Objects are separated from each other, by their 
qualities : they are distinguished by the distance of 
time or place. 

Clarendon, being a man of extensive abilities, 
stored his mind wi^h a variety of ideas ; which 
circumstance contributed to the successful exertion 
of his vigorous capacity. 

SECT. V. 

Key, p. 148. 

The most high degree of reverence and attention 
should be paid to youth ; and nothing that is in- 
decent or indel'cate should be suffered to approach 
their eyes or their ears. 

He who is blessed with a clear conscience, in the 
worst conjunctures of human life, enjoys an eleva- 
tion of mind peculiar to virtue, as well as dignity 
and peace. 

The hand of industry may change, in a few years, 
the face of a country; but to alter the sentiments 
and manners of a peoplo, reqiiires f>ften as niany 
^;cnerations. 



Promiscuous.) perspicuitv, &c. t&t 

When the human mind dwells attentively and 
long uporj any subject, the passions are apt to grow 
enthusiastic, interested and warm ; and the under- 
itanding which they ought to obey, they often force 
into their service. 

Some years after, being released from prison, by 
reason of his consummate knowledge of civil law, 
and of military aflairvs^he was exalted to the supreme 
power. 

The discontented man (as his spleen irritates and 
BOurs his temper, and leads him to discharge its 
venom on all with whom he stands connected,) is 
never found without a great share of malignity. 

We cannot doubt but all the proceedings of Pro- 
vidence will appear as equitable, when fully under- 
stood and completely intelligible, as now they seem 
irregular. 

All that great wealth gives more than a moderate 
fortune, generally is, more room for the freaks of 
caprice, and privilege for ignorance and vice : of 
flatteries a quicker succession, and a larger circle of 
voluptuousness. 

The miscarriages of the great designs of prince* 
are recorded in the histories of the world, but are 
of little use to the bulk of mankind, who seem very 
tittle interested in records of miscarriages w^hich 
cannot happen to them. 

Were there any man who could say, in the course 
©f his life, that he had never suffered himself to be 
transported by passion, or had ever given just ground 
of offence to any one, such a ma,i might, when he 
received from others unreasonable treatment, have 
some plea for impatience* 

Christianity will, at some future period, influence 
fte cond^ict of rations as welt as individuals. But 
this will be, though its greatest, probably its latest 
^iumph : for this can be only brought about throisgk 
%M med'mm of private chnrac'.cr; and tbj^t&fi 



182 EXERCISES* (Promiscuoiii. 

will be not rapid in Its progress, and visible at every 
Step I but gradual, and visible when considerabk 
effects only have been produced* 

The British constitution stands, like an ancieKl 
oak m the wood, among the nations of the earthy 
which, after having overcome many a blast, over- 
tops the other trees of the forest, and commands 
respect end veneration^. 

SECT. VI. 

Key, p. 150. 

What an anchor is to a vessel amidst a boisterous 
6cean, on a coast unknown, and in a dark night, that 
is the hope of future happiness to the soul, vvhen be- 
set by the confusions of the world: for in dangers^ 
it affords one fixed point of rest ; amidst general 
fluctuation, it gives security. 

Our pride and self-conceit, (by nourishing a weak 
and childish sensibility to every fajicied point of 
Our own honour and interest, while they shut ']p all 
regard to the honour or interest of our brethren,, 
render us quarrelsome and contentious. 

If there be any first principles of wisdom, it un- 
doubtedly is this : the distresses that are removable, 
endeavour to remove ; bear w.ih as lit-tle disquiet 
as you can, the distresses which cannot be removed , 
comforts are to be fouT^d in every situation and 
condition of life; having found them, enjoy them. 

Instead of aspiring farther than your proper level, 
bring your mind down to your state ; lest you 
spend your life in a train of fruitless pursuits, by 
aiining too high, and at last bring yourself to an 
entire state of insignificance and contempt. 

Often have we seen, that what we considered as 
a sore disappointment at the time, has proved to be 
a merciful providence iir the issue ; and that it 
would have been so far from making us happy, if: 
what we once ear^erly wished for had been obtail>«. 
^^ thai it would have produced our ruin*. 



fircmiscuous.) FERSPicuixr, Sic. 18* 

Can the stream continue to advance, when Jt is 
deprived of the fountain ? Can the branch improve, 
when taken from the stock which gave it nourish* 
ment ? Dependent spirits can no more be happy, 
when parted from all union with the Father of spt^ 
fits, and the Fountain of happiness. 

Prosperity is redoubled to a good man, by meant- 
of the generous use which he makes of it ; and it is 
reflected back upon him by every one whom he 
makes happy : for, in the esteem and good-will of 
all w^ho know him, m the gratitude of dependents, 
in the attachment of friends, and the intercourse of 
domestic affection, he sees blessings multiplied round 
him, on every side. 

Whoever would pass, with honour and decency, 
the latter part of life, must consider when he is 
young, that one day he shall be old ; and remember 
that when he is old, he has once been young: 
he must lay up knowledge in youth for nis support, 
when his powers of acting shall forsake him ; and 
forbear to animadvert in age, with rigour, on faults 
1 which experience can alone^orrect. 

Let us consider that youth is of no long duration ; 

land that when the enchantments of fancy in matur- 

er age shall cease, and phantoms no more dance 

labout us, we shall have no comforts but v/ise men's 

lesteem, the approbation of our hearts, and the means 

lof doing good : and let us live a^ men that are to 

Igrow old some time, and to whom of all evils it wi\ 

|be the most dreadful, to count their years past only 

3y follies, and to be reminded of their former luxu 

fiance of health, by the maladies only whiek riot 

is produced. 



APPENDIX : 

'BlfllTAINING EXAMPLES, TO ASSIST THE STUDENT lit 
TRANSPOSING THE PARTS OP SENTENCES, AND IN 
TABTING THE FORM OF EXPRESSING A SENTIMENT. 



CHAP. I. 

On transpo3mg the Members of a Sentence^ 

The practice of transposing the members of sen- 
tences, is an exercise so useful to young persons, that 
It requires a more particular explanation, than could 
have been properly given in the preceding work, 

A few of the various modes in which the parts of a 
sentence may be arranged, have, therefore, been 
collected ; and they are, with other matter, pro- 
duced in the form of an Appendix to the general 
fcercises. By examining them attentively, the stu- 
dent will perceive, in some degree, the nature and 
eflect of transposition ; and by being frequently ex- 
ercised in showing i^s variety in other sentences, he 
will obtain a facility in the operation ; and a dex- 
terity in discovering and applying, on all occasions, 
the clearest and most forcible arrangement. By this 
practice, he will also be able more readily to pene- 
trate the meaning of such sentences, as are rendered 
obscure and perplexing to most readers^ by the ir- 
regular disposition of their parts. 

The first and last forms of each class of examples, 
|are to be considered as the least exceptionable. 

The Roman state evidendy declined, m propof* 
ion to the increase of luxury.. 



i8S AFFEXDIX. 

The RoiLan state, in proportion to the ini3iea&t 
of luxury, evidently declined. 

In proportion to the increase of luxury, the Ro 
tnan state evidently d^^clined. 

I am willing to remit all that is past, provided it may 
J)e dojiG with safety. 

I am willing, provided it may be done with safety 
to rem.it all that is past. 

Provided it may be done with safety, I am willing 
to remit all that is past. 

That greatness of mind w^hich show^s itself in dan- 
gers and labours, if it wants justice, is blamable. 

If that greatness of mind, wliich shows itself in 
dangers and labours, is void of justice, it is blamable. 

That greatness of mind is blamable, which showa 
itself ia dangers and labours, if it wants justice. 

If that greatness of mind is void of justice, v/hich 
shows itself in dangers and labours, it is blamable. 

That greatness of mind is blamable, if it is void a! 
justice, which shows itself in dangers and labours. 

If it wants justice, that greatness of mind, which 
shows itself in dangers and labours, is blanlable. 

He who made light to spring from primeval dark- 
ness, will make order, at last, to arise from the seem- 
ing confusion of the world. 

From the seeming confusion of the world, lie who 
made light to spring from primeval darkness, will make 
order, at last, to arise. 

He who made light to spring from primeval dark, 
ness, will, fram the seeming confusion of the worlds 
make order, at last, to arise. 

He who made light to spring from primeval dark' 
fiess, will, at last, from the seeming confusion of the 
tvorld, make order to arise.— 

He will make order, at last, to arise from the seem* 
mg confusion of the world, who made light to spring 
from primeval darkness. 



APPENDIX. 187 

From the seeming confusion of the world, He 
% 11 make order, at last, to arise, who made light to 
spring from primeval darkness. 

He who made light to spring from primeval dark 
ness will, at last, make order to arise, from the seem 
ing confusion of this world. 

V^Tioever considers the uncertainty of human af- 
fairs, and how frequently the greatest hopes are 
frustrated ; will see just reason to be always on his 
guard, and not to place too much dependence on 
things so precarious. 

He will see just reason to be always on his guard, 
and not to place too much dependence on the pre- 
carious things of time; who considers the uncer- 
tainty of human affairs, and how often the greatest 
hopes are frustrated. 

Let us not conclude, while dangers are at a dis- 
tance, and do not immediately approach us, that we 
are secure; unless we use the necessary precaution 
tO' prevent them. 

Unless we use the necessary precautions to pre- 
vent dangers, let us not conclude, while they are at a 
distance, and do not immediately approach us, that 
we are secure. 

Unless we use the necessary precautions to pre- 
vent dangers, let us not conclude that we are secure, 
while they are at a distance, and do not immediately 
approach us. 

Let us not conclude that we are secure, while 
dangers are at a distance, and do not immediately 
approachus, unless we use the necessary precautions 
to prevent them. 

While dangers are at a distance, and do not im- 
mediately approach us, let us not conclude, that we 
are secure, unless we use the necessary precautions 
to prevent them. 

Those things which appear great to one wh© 
knows nothing greater, will sink into a diminutive 



Industry is not only the instrument of improvr^ 
ment, but the foundation of pleasure. 

Industry produces both improvement and plea- 
sure. 

Improvement and pleasure are the products of 
mdustry. 

The common attendants on idleness are ignorance 
and misery. 

Valerius passed several laws, abridging the powei 
of the senate, and extending that of the people. 

Several laws were passed by Valerius, which 
abridged the power of the senate, and extended that 
of the people. 

The power of the senate was abridged, and that 
of the people extended, by several laws passed dur- 
ing the consulship of Valerius. 

The advantages of ihis world, even when inno- 
cently gained, are uncertain blessings. 

If the advantages of this world were innocently 
gained, they are still uncertain blessings. 

We may indeed innocently gain .the advantages 
of this world ; but even then they are uncertain 
blessings. 

Uncertainty attends all the advantages of this 
world, not excepting those which are innocently 
acquired. 

The blessings which we derive from the ad van 
tages of this world, are not secure, even when the} 
are innocently gained. 

When you behold wicked men multiplying it 
number, and increasing in power, imagine not that 
Providence particularly favours them. 

When wicked men are observed to multiply m 
mimber, and increase in power, we are not to sup^ 
pose that they are particularly favoured by Pro- 
vkle nc6. 



From the increase and prosperity of the wicked 
we must not infer that they are the favourites o 
Providence. 

Charity consists not in speculative ideas of eener^ 
benevolence, floating in the head, and leaving thr, 
heart, as specuJations too often do, untouched and 

cold. 

Speculative ideas of general benevolence, do not 
fonnthe virtue of charity, for these often float in the 
head, and leave the heart untouched and cold. 

Speculations v/hich leave the heart unaffected and 
cold, though they may consist of general benevolence 
floating in the head, do not form the great virtue of 
charity. 

Universal benevolence to mankind, whenitresta 
m the abstract, does not constitute the noble vu'tue 
of charity. It is then a loose indeterminate idea 
rather than a principle of real elTcct : and floats as a 
useless speculation in the head, instead of aflecting 
the temper and the heart. 

A wolf let into the sheepfold, will devour the 
sheep* 

If we let a wolf into the fold, the she-ep wiH b? 
dsevoured. 

The wolf will devour the sheep, if the sheepfold 
be left open. 

A wolf being let into tne sneepiola, tne sneep 
will be devoured. 

If the fold be not left carefully shut, the wolf wiH 
devour the sheep. 

There is no defence of the sheep {r^m the well, 
(snless it be kept out of the fold. 

A slaughter will be made amongst th^ sheep, it 
the wolf can get into the fold. 

The preceding examples show that tne form oi 
expressing a sentiment may be properly varied \w 
l%gniiigc the active voice of verbs into the pas^v 



mi ATPENDiyLm 9 

and ihe nominative case of nouns into the objective ^ 
by altering the connexion of short sentences^ by dif* 
ferent adverbs and conjunctions, and by the use of 
prepositions ; by applying adjectives and adveros 
instead of substantives, and vice versa ; by using the 
case absolute in place of the nominative and verb 
and the participle instead of the verb ; by reversing 
the correspondent parts of the sentence ; and by the 
negation of the contrary, instead of the assertion o' 
the thing first proposed. By these, and other mode§ 
of expression, a great variety of forms of speech^ 
exactly or nearly of the same import, may be pro- 
duced ; and the young student furnished with a con- 
siderable store for his selection and use. 

When the business of transposing the parts oi 
sentences, and of varying the forms of expression, 
becomes familiar to the student, he may be employ- 
ed in reducing the particulars of a few pages, to ge- 
neral heads ; and in expanding sentiments generally 
expressed, into their correspondent particulars ; and 
by making these operations more or less general, 
and more or less particular, a considerable variety 
will be introduced into this part of the Exercises. 

An employment of the kind here proposed, will 
not only make the learner skilful in the meaning an J 
application of terms, and in the nature of a concise 
and of a copious style : but it will also teach him to 
think with order and attention ; to contract or expand 
his views. at pleasure; and to digest the sentiment* 
of other persons, or his own, in the manner beiSl 
adapted to assist his judgment and memory. 

TffE END. 



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